The Sunbeam Journal
Guides for families navigating special educational needs
Practical advice on ADHD, dyslexia, autism, EHCPs and exams — written by SEN tutors and coaches.
Latest articles
36 articles-
Dyslexia · Research
7 Must-Read Books to Help You Understand Dyslexia
Understanding dyslexia is a journey of discovery, support, and learning. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone with dyslexia seeking deeper insight, these seven books offer practical strategies, research-backed knowledge, and real-life experiences to help navigate challenges and embrace strengths.
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ADHD · ADHD Coaching
Key Qualities of an ADHD Tutor or Coach for Students
Students with ADHD benefit from tutors or coaches who go beyond standard academic help, providing executive function coaching and behavioural support. At Sunbeam Education, we believe that students with ADHD deserve empathetic, expert support. Below is a structured overview of essential qualities and practices to look for in an ADHD tutor or coach, including necessary qualifications, effective teaching methods, ways to evaluate a tutor’s executive function support skills, key behavioural strategies, red flags to watch out for, and other important considerations.
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Dyspraxia · SEN
Understanding Dyspraxia: Helping Students with Dyspraxia Thrive in Education
Understanding dyspraxia is key to helping students navigate education successfully. This blog post outlines practical strategies to support students with dyspraxia and create a positive, inclusive learning environment.
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Dyslexia · SEN
Supporting Students with Dyslexia: Practical Home Study Tips
Dyslexia can present unique challenges for students, particularly when studying at home. In this blog post, we explore practical strategies for supporting students with dyslexia, helping them manage these challenges and build confidence in their learning.
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ADHD · Autism
Meet Sunbeam’s Founder: A Q&A with Alex Pagett, PhD
Helping students with special educational needs (SEN) thrive is central to everything we do at Sunbeam Education. I’m Katie, a member of the Sunbeam team, and I recently had the chance to sit down with Alex, our founder, to talk about his journey, mission, and the heart behind the business.
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ADHD · ADHD Coaching
7 Must-Read Books to Help You Understand ADHD
Understanding ADHD can be a journey of discovery, compassion, and learning. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone with ADHD looking to deepen your understanding, these seven books offer practical advice, research-backed insights, and relatable perspectives for diverse needs.
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ADHD · Autism
The Hidden Impact of Parental Stress on Families of Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
At Sunbeam Education, we understand that parenting a student with special educational needs (SEN), such as autism or other developmental differences, brings moments of great joy but also unique pressures. One important issue that often goes unnoticed is the impact of parental stress on parenting and family well-being.
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Dyslexia · Research
Understanding Dyslexia: What Research Tells Us About Reading and Attention
In a groundbreaking 2008 study, researchers Sally and Bennett Shaywitz explored how the brain processes reading, and why students with dyslexia face unique challenges. Their work shows how attention and brain activity are linked to reading difficulties, and offers fresh insights into how to support students with dyslexia.
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ADHD · ADHD Coaching
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a brain-based condition affecting how people focus, manage impulses, and regulate their activity levels. It can cause challenges with attention, organisation, and self-control. Once thought to affect only children, ADHD is now recognised as a lifelong condition. Most people continue to experience symptoms into adulthood, and adult-onset ADHD is also medically recognised.
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