Professor Angela Fawcett

RETA Registrar

Angela is a leading international researcher into dyslexia and other learning differences, with a range of theoretical and applied contributions. Angela is now Emeritus professor at Swansea University, following her retirement in January 2011 and also holds an honourary professorship at Sheffield University. She was awarded a 2-year Leverulme Emeritus fellowship until September 2013, to complete her research projects in Wales.

Why did you choose to work in the field of SpLD?

Because of the experiences of our son Matthew, who was diagnosed as dyslexic when he was 5 and a half, and confirmed at age 8.

What is one thing that never fails to make you smile in the work that you do?

My contacts with researchers, educational therapists, advocates, parents and children worldwide.

What do you think is the most important quality/value/belief a person must have when working in the field of Special Education?

You must have a passionate belief that there are strengths as well as weaknesses and help those you work with to identify these in order to overcome their weaknesses.

What is the one thing you would do to improve special education in your country?

Make diagnosis, assessment and support readily available without cost for all ages so that everyone that needed support could benefit.

What motivated you to become a RETA member and how has it benefitted you?

I was motivated by my passion for excellent support for dyslexia, and it has enriched my life through the DAS case studies and the people I have encountered through RETA.

What advice would you give someone who has special educational needs or lives/works with people with special educational needs?

Never give up in working towards the best outcomes for all!