Phill is a Learning Support Assistant and a member of the ALS Team at Middlesbrough College. As part of his job role Phill is assigned to students to help guide them through their learning journey at Middlesbrough College.
Phill said “My job role is extremely varied and I have to be very flexible. In one week I can be with a student in the Motor Vehicle Workshop, working at MC6 in A Levels and a practical culinary class in the Training Kitchens!
“The main aim is to help students gain independence both in College and in their life outside College so this involves helping with any physical difficulties and academic support. The job is what can only be described as a huge rollercoaster but it is incredibly rewarding.”
Phill also runs a website which he is hoping to set up as a charity or separate business called Our Dyslexic Journey. Phill was diagnosed with dyslexia when he was twenty two years old after struggling throughout his education and being told he wouldn’t achieve his career dreams of becoming an English teacher. Despite this, Phill has an English degree, a teaching qualification and a master’s degree in Inclusion in Special Education.
The aim for Our Dyslexic Journey is to openly share personal stories. This is for anyone who has been diagnosed as dyslexic, is a parent or guardian of a dyslexic individual or a professional who has some connection with dyslexia. Each person that comes to the website brings a unique story to tell which inspires and creates understanding for others. The stories can be viewed as videos, podcasts and blogs.
Phill said “I had completed my degree by the time I was diagnosed with dyslexia. It was a difficult time for me as I was told by a professor at a university that I would never be able to become a teacher as I was dyslexic, but I have proved to myself that I can achieve.
“I want everyone to believe that they are enough and have the confidence to pursue their career and personal ambitions. Even if you do have a learning difficulty, you can do whatever you want to do and be who you want to be.”
After being diagnosed with dyslexia, Phill set up a dyslexic mentoring system in a local school where he worked before joining Middlesbrough College. The system helped students to believe in themselves and develop their confidence.
Since joining Middlesbrough College Phill has developed this awareness and has been a keynote speaker at Dyslexia conferences and also helps to develop and deliver Dyslexia training to staff at College.
Now Phill is taking this further on a global platform with his website which has stories from people all around the world: www.ourdyslexicjourney.co.uk