A UNIVERSITY of Derby third year student is helping to raise awareness of dyslexia in schools by managing a new national campaign.
Sarah Chapman is targeting dyslexic children in schools throughout the UK, encouraging them to prepare and deliver a presentation to their classmates about their experiences.
Ms Chapman wants Young Dyslexics to change people's attitudes towards the condition, which is commonly defined as "involving difficulty in learning to read or interpret words, letters, and other symbols, but not affecting intelligence". Video of Henry Winkler's message to Young Dyslexics:
She said: "How people act towards children can have a huge impact on how they develop throughout education, so by getting rid of misconceptions, it is hoped to improve their experiences of learning.
"The idea is for them to teach their peers about dyslexia, what it is and how it affects them.
"It also aims to teach them about the things that they are good at and all the innovative and creative things that people with dyslexia, such as Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs, have brought to society.
"Every dyslexic child is different and will have limitations as well as many strengths."
Ms Chapman has already started to collate videos of the presentations including one by Tom Judson, 12, who attends Friesland School, in Sandiacre.
She said: "All children who deliver a presentation will receive a certificate to reward them for their bravery in raising awareness of dyslexia.
"The school will film the presentation, which will be used to raise awareness throughout the UK and all over the world."
Ms Chapman has also gained the support of another famous dyslexic, Henry Winkler, better know as The Fonz in television's Happy Days. She met him in Birmingham when he posed for photographs and also recorded a message to children for the campaign, during his My Way tour.
Ms Chapman has also secured coverage for the campaign in children's newspaper First News.
Mum-of-two Ms Chapman, 30, has been nominated in the positive role model category in this year's National Diversity Awards. Nominations close on July 18.
To support Ms Chapman, go to www.nationaldiversity awards.co.uk. The awards will be held at The Hurlingham Club, in London, on September 26.
