Dumfriesshire MSP Oliver Mundell this week attended STEP’s first event in Scotland. STEP is an organisation that promotes physical literacy as a way for children with Dyslexia to improve their reading skills and gain self-confidence.
The STEP Programme incorporates ten minute physical exercises into the classroom twice a day. These exercises emphasise balance, coordination and eye tracking in order to develop students’ focus, concentration, and memory skills.
STEP has been implemented in numerous schools across England and the United States and has been shown to produce excellent results. At the end of STEP’s 2015/16 pilot study, participating students improved remarkably in English, spelling, reading, maths and overall self-esteem.
Mr Mundell enjoyed learning about how the programme could work in Scotland and was delighted to have the chance to discuss the attainment gap with fellow dyslexic, and former Scotland rugby international, Kenny Logan.
Commenting on the event, Oliver said: “I am truly inspired by the STEP programme and its potential to help change the lives of local young people and tackle the attainment gap for those with additional learning needs.”
“The struggles of individuals with learning and behavioural challenges is a very personal cause.
“Based off my own experience of dyslexia and dyspraxia, I understand the obstacles students face in the classroom and the effect on academic performance. Physical literacy programs, like STEP, can make a big difference and help students reach their full potential and I know I would have benefited from this support.
“As MSP, I will work hard to bring these issues to the forefront of the Scottish Parliament’s political agenda and will be calling on the Scottish Government to make this a priority.
“I applaud the mission and efforts of STEP and look forward to working with them to encourage local authorities, including Dumfries and Galloway Council, to sign up.”
To learn more about STEP and their cause visit: http://www.steptoday.com
