Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ 1: Is Frewen College a specialist school for dyslexia?

Yes. Frewen College is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school specialising in dyslexia and co-occurring specific learning difficulties (SpLDs). Our teaching approaches, class sizes and pastoral care are designed specifically to meet the needs of students who learn differently and may not have thrived in other settings.

Many of our students are bright, capable learners whose dyslexia may have previously impacted confidence, self‑esteem or progress. We help them rediscover a love of learning through specialist teaching and an individualised approach.

FAQ 2: Is Frewen College suitable for students with severe dyslexia?

Yes. Frewen College is well suited to students with mild to severe dyslexia, particularly those who have struggled to access learning or maintain confidence in other settings.

Teaching is adapted to support specific learning difficulties (SpLD) through small class sizes, specialist strategies and a highly individualised approach. This allows students with more pronounced dyslexia to make progress at their own pace while building effective coping strategies and independence.

Each child is considered individually to ensure Frewen College can meet their academic, emotional and pastoral needs.

Frewen College unlocks every child’s fullest potential via our gold standard, evidenced-based approach enabling all to aspire, believe and achieve.

FAQ 3: Does Frewen College support GCSEs for students with dyslexia?

Yes. Frewen College supports students with dyslexia as they work towards GCSE qualifications, with teaching approaches adapted to suit dyslexic learners.

Support includes:

• Dyslexia‑friendly teaching methods (e.g. multisensory, whole-brain learning)
• Small class sizes
• Individual learning strategies
• Cumulative curriculum
• Preparation for appropriate exam access arrangements, where applicable

This enables students to demonstrate their knowledge and make meaningful academic progress in line with their abilities.

FAQ 4: How does Frewen College support students with dyslexia?

We support students with dyslexia through a combination of evidence-based, specialist teaching strategies, small class sizes and individual learning plans.

Our teachers are trained in dyslexia‑friendly and multisensory teaching methods, ensuring lessons are accessible, structured and engaging. Students receive individualised support that focuses on literacy development, organisation, memory skills and confidence‑building.

Support is embedded throughout the school rather than delivered in isolation, helping students develop independence and resilience alongside academic progress.

Our Headmaster, Mr Loveday sits on the national SPLD Standards Committee and is the only head to, thus Frewen is at the forefront of research and approach.

FAQ 5: What class sizes can a dyslexic student expect?

Class sizes at Frewen College are deliberately small, allowing teachers to provide individual attention and tailored support. This is particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia, as it enables teachers to adapt pacing, reinforce learning and check understanding regularly.

Small classes also help reduce anxiety and improve confidence, creating a positive learning experience. At Frewen College, we aim to keep class sizes at 10 or below, ensuring each student receives consistent individual attention.

In addition, every classroom is organised with dyslexic learners in mind. Teaching spaces are calm and structured, with the front of the classroom kept clear of visual distractions and overwhelming material. Supporting resources are positioned carefully, creating a clear, calm and focused learning environment that helps students concentrate and engage confidently.

FAQ 6: Is Frewen College suitable for students who have struggled in other schools?

Yes. Frewen College is particularly well suited to students who have not thrived in other settings due to dyslexia, learning differences or anxiety around education.

Our nurturing environment, smaller classes and emphasis on understanding each learner allow students to feel safe, valued and motivated. Many parents choose Frewen College after their child has experienced frustration, low confidence or underachievement elsewhere. Equally, parents choose Frewen to ensure their child can reach their fullest potential through gold standard dyslexic education.

FAQ 7: Do students need a formal dyslexia diagnosis to attend Frewen College?

Yes. As part of the admissions process, Frewen College requires formal diagnostic evidence of dyslexia and a related specific learning difficulty.

Relevant reports and paperwork are requested early in the admissions process. This ensures the school can fully understand a child’s profile and confirm that Frewen College is able to meet their learning needs appropriately and effectively.

This careful approach helps ensure that every student admitted is well-supported from the outset.