Our team
Jo Phoenix
Specialist Dyslexia Assessor and Teacher | Director of Learning with Dyslexia Ltd
As a passionate educator, I aim to give every child the gift of learning to read, foster a love for learning, and help them flourish.
Through my specialist teaching and assessments, I provide the tools each child needs to believe in themselves and succeed in life.
I graduated with a 1st class honours degree in Primary Education in 2002 and have since taught in various schools across London and Devon. My deep-rooted passion has always been in teaching reading, writing, and supporting children with Special Educational Needs.
However, during my four years at university, I wasn’t taught about dyslexia or how it could impact a child’s ability to learn. My understanding began to grow when I met my dyslexic partner. I was intrigued by how challenging simple tasks, like writing a postcard, could be for him. Around the same time, I noticed a few children in my classes were not progressing in reading as expected, and I didn’t know how best to help them.
When my son started Year 1 in 2010, I saw him struggle with literacy. He couldn’t read the basic words on flashcards or in his books. I felt a deep sense of worry, suspecting he might be dyslexic. Despite reassurances from his teachers that he would catch up, I knew something was blocking his ability to learn. He was bright and articulate, but reading and writing were challenging for him. I realised I needed to learn how to support him effectively.
- jo@learningwithdyslexia.co.uk
- 07727 298 806
I began researching and soon enrolled in a Postgraduate Certificate in Dyslexia and Literacy through Dyslexia Action. Once I qualified as a specialist dyslexia and literacy teacher, I started working with my son and a few of his peers who were also struggling. With just one hour of focused support each week, these children regained their confidence, their self-esteem blossomed, and they began reading, writing, and smiling again.
Later, when my daughter encountered similar struggles in Year 1, I recognised the signs. Despite her early success in Reception, she found it increasingly hard to keep up with her friends. As her confidence waned, she became disengaged, and behavioural issues emerged. After having her assessed, it confirmed that she, too, was dyslexic.
These experiences led me to leave classroom teaching and start Learning with Dyslexia Ltd. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of teaching and assessing over 500 students, from young children to adults. Each individual I work with teaches me more about dyslexia, its challenges, and its unique strengths. I continuously refine and adapt my teaching methods and resources to meet their diverse learning needs.
Over the years, my company has evolved and grown. In March 2021, I completed my Master’s in Dyslexia and Specific Learning Difficulties. Recognising the increasing number of students struggling within the current education system, I developed the ‘I Can Succeed’ teaching programme. This initiative trains visionary teachers to become expert dyslexia practitioners, enabling us to support more learners in one-on-one or small group settings. Our goal is to instil confidence in these children, allowing them to thrive and succeed in their education.
In addition to my work with students, I consult with schools and colleges, providing assessments, teaching, and sharing my expertise through training and modelling sessions. My mission is to create a brighter future for dyslexic learners by breaking down barriers and unlocking their potential.
I am committed to helping your child succeed and look forward to supporting you on this journey of discovery…
Honours & Awards
– MA Dyslexia and Specific Learning Difficulties (Bath Spa University)
– B. Ed. (1st class Hons) with QTS (University of North London)
– SpLD Assessment Award Practising Certificate (APC- Patoss): 500002197-IF5780
– AMBDA- Certificate in Dyslexia and Literacy
– Certificate in Competence in Educational Testing (CCET)
– Certificate in Psychometric Testing, Assessment & Access Arrangements (CPT3A)