Next week, on Friday and Saturday, March 15th and 16th, 2024, the NEC in Birmingham will host the annual Dyslexia & Dyscalculia Show.

I’ve been to the last couple of shows and always come away buzzing with helpful information and new ideas. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or just keen to learn more about Dyslexia and Dyscalculia, there’s something there for everyone. It’s the go-to place for anyone looking to understand more, find support, or explore new tools and ideas in this space. 

This year, I’m planning to go again and would love to see some familiar faces. If you’re thinking of coming, why not drop me a line? We could grab a coffee and chat about what we’ve discovered at the show.

Last year, I wrote a blog post about the lessons I learned from the Dyslexia Show 2023, focusing on tools and strategies that helped me manage my own Dyslexia. 

It was a shift from the previous year, where I focused more on finding resources for my students. I’ve found that improving my coping mechanisms helps me and makes me a better tutor.

Keep reading if you want to know more about what to expect at the Dyslexia and Dyscalculia Show and how to make the most of it. Including my top 10 tips for getting the most out of the experience. 

Overview of the Dyslexia and Dyscalculia Show

Next week’s show at the NEC in Birmingham is a must-attend if you’re involved with or interested in Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, or Neurodiversity in general. The show is divided into four main sections: each offering a wealth of resources and insights catering to different roles and needs. 

Practical Information for Attendees

Registering for the Dyslexia and Dyscalculia Show is straightforward and free, making it accessible to everyone interested. You’ll need to register in advance for either Friday or Saturday. Ensure you have your badge printed off. Don’t have a printer? No worries; there’s a spot at the venue where you can print it off using a code. They’ll pop it into a lanyard for you, and you’ll also get a handy goody bag – perfect for stashing all the freebies and info you’ll pick up. 

Getting to the NEC is easy for anyone near Birmingham or those who don’t mind a bit of travel. If you’re taking the train, it drops you right at the NEC station, just a short walk to the Exhibition Centre. Driving? – you’ll likely need to pay for parking. I’ve always taken the train, so I can’t give you the lowdown on parking, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Navigating the Website:

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. The show’s website can be a maze, especially since it segments information based on whether you’re attending as an educator, a parent, a professional, or just for yourself. To get around this, I’ve found two handy workarounds: open the website in separate tabs in your browser, one for each section (For Education, For Parents, For the Workplace, and For Individuals). 

Or open the main website, not the registration version. In the main one, you can see all the workshops slightly more easily, and then you can go back to the post-registration site to select and book the sessions.  

Using either of these ways, you can flip between them without getting locked into just one perspective. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for planning your day and ensuring you don’t miss out on something brilliant because it was hidden in a section you didn’t initially register for.

The Educators and Parents sections run workshops on both days. However, the Workplace is only on Friday, and Individuals are only on Saturday. 

The image below is from an email they sent me showing how many sessions are available. 

Budgeting for Workshops:

While the show itself and many of the workshops and talks are free, the CPD-accredited workshops aren’t. They’re worth every penny, but those pennies do add up. They are £20+VAT in advance or £25+VAT on the day. Keep a close eye on your budget and take advantage of any bundle deals for workshop tickets. They can save you a bit if you’re keen on attending multiple sessions.

My top tips are:

1. Dedicate Time: The Dyslexia Show is packed with value, so clear your schedule if you can. Whether you’re exploring for personal growth, your child’s development, or professional enrichment, the time you spend here is worthwhile.
2. Choose Wisely: There’s a lot on offer, and trying to do it all is tempting. But think about what you really want to achieve from the event – is it new teaching strategies, understanding more about Neurodiversity, or finding tools to help with Dyscalculia? Let your goals guide your choices.
3. Manage Your Schedule: It’s easy to get caught up and book back-to-back sessions, but trust me, breaks are your friend. They give you time to reflect on what you’ve learned and recharge for the next round of information. 
4. Explore and Unwind: Don’t miss out on all the stalls but also the chance to step outside. A bit of fresh air can do wonders for keeping your energy up throughout the day. 
5. Consider an Overnight Stay: If you can, staying nearby either before or after means you can have a full day and won’t have to rush off, and can fully absorb the day’s experiences. Plus, having a quiet space to unwind after a day full of learning is nice.
6. Networking Opportunities: Whether a planned meet-up or a spontaneous chat, connecting with others at the show can open up new perspectives and opportunities. Don’t be shy to share your experiences and learn from others. 
7. Business Cards: Don’t forget to pack your business cards! The show is bustling with networking opportunities, and having your card ready can make all the difference. Whether you’re engaging with exhibitors, participating in workshops, or striking up a conversation over coffee, a quick exchange of cards can pave the way for valuable connections within the education sector. It’s not about doing it to find new students; it’s about expanding your professional network with like-minded individuals and experts. 
8. Feedback Matters: Your insights and reflections on the show are incredibly valuable. Make a point to provide feedback on the sessions you attend and the interactions you have either there and then or drop them a message. It’s a great way to contribute to the community and help shape future events.
9. Document Everything: From workshop slides to new discoveries at the stalls, keep a record. Photos, notes, or even quick audio recordings can help you remember and revisit the insights you’ve gained. 
10. Audio and Video Recordings: If you’re like me and find jotting down notes while listening challenging, recordings can be a game-changer. They allow you to engage in the moment and fully review the details later.

Remember, this show is a unique chance to immerse yourself in the world of Dyslexia and Dyscalculia, whether for professional development, personal growth, or supporting a loved one. Take advantage of it, and maybe I’ll see you there!

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