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An educational psychologist is helping students with dyslexia to prepare for their exams.

The Dyslexia Support Unit at Forest Hall School works with students with low literacy to teach them the skills and strategies to achieve in life.

In preparation for their GCSE exams this summer, Year 9, 10 and 11 students have been working with Dr Andy Keay, the school’s senior educational psychologist from Essex County Council.

The DSU curriculum support groups are giving students the tools to do well in their upcoming tests.

Students are able to share their emotional, physical and cognitive concerns, pick up tips on how to revise effectively, tackle past exam papers and practise answers.

They are also given resources to help, such as mindmaps and flash cards, and taught relaxation techniques.

Sue Flood, Head of Unit, said: “We have been looking at exam techniques. The curriculum support groups are really helpful for students, especially those in Year 9 who have not sat any GCSEs yet. They are something we can refer back to and remind students of the techniques they have been taught.

“This isn’t about students being told what to do, it’s a discussion. It’s an opportunity for students to discuss how they are revising and for Dr Keay to explain a format and a plan for how to approach revision.”

Students are advised to revise little and often, taking regular breaks, rather than devoting an entire day to their books.

Students from across Essex – from Halstead and Chelmsford to Waltham Abbey and Epping – attend lessons in the DSU with three specialist teachers who focus on multi-sensory teaching, while boosting confidence and self-esteem.

Hannah Jones, head of school, said: “The exceptional work that takes place in the DSU is world class. Students are not just supported academically, they are supported with their social, cultural and moral development. Our specialist teachers work above and beyond to ensure these students have better life chances and future opportunities.”