A Darlington primary school is leading the way in its efforts to recognise, support and teach dyslexic children.

New starters at Reid Street primary school are now routinely assessed for signs of dyslexia and, if testing proves positive, support is on hand from day one.

Resources have been set aside to implement individual teaching plans, provide specialist equipment and generally ensure that the teaching staff and school are dyslexia-friendly.

Mrs Karen Hardman, committee member of the Darlington and district dyslexia support group, told the D&S Times that the school played a crucial role in the lives of dyslexic children.

A dyslexic teacher herself, and the mother of a 15-year-old dyslexic son, she knows the pitfalls ahead.

"Reid Street school takes account of these children from day one," she said. "They often have poor short-term memory and poor attention to the different sounds in words.

"Because of this they need an individual approach in order to learn to write and spell. The earlier they get this kind of tuition the quicker they can catch up and keep up with their peers.

"It is crucial to catch them early because the later it gets the more difficult it is to help."

Her son, James, was not picked up until he was aged nine and it was this that led her into teaching.

"The British Dyslexic Association recently sent out questionnaires to all MPs to hand to primary schools in their area," Mrs Hardman added. "In Darlington only 11 of those schools returned the form and out of those not many knew how they could help dyslexic children in their schools.

"We need to address this and give support and help to all schools."

A public meeting is taking place in the restaurant of Morrison's business centre, Morton Park, on Monday, from 7pm-8.45, to hear a presentation from the staff at Reid Street school.

There will also be an opportunity to meet other dyslexics, parents, teachers and supporters to exchange information, experiences and ideas.

For further details of the support group, contact Mrs Hardman on 01325 281067.