Training Opportunities from the OT Service

Understanding Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia)

Did you know? Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as Dyspraxia, affects approximately 5–6% of the population. That means it’s highly likely that at least one child in your class may be living with DCD.

As part of our universal service offer, the Children’s Occupational Therapy Service is providing free training for primary education staff across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

What to Expect from the Training:

• Practical and experiential activities to help you understand the challenges faced by children with DCD.
• Simple classroom strategies to help you differentiate and accommodate learning for children with DCD.
• Therapists available after the session to discuss individual concerns and offer tailored advice.

Venue: Hazel Trees
Upcoming Dates:

• 04 November 2025
• 21 April 2026

Playwise: Supporting Developmental Foundation Skills in Early Years

The Children’s Occupational Therapy Service is also offering training for Early Years education staff in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire schools.

Why Attend?

• Learn classroom strategies to support children aged 3–5 in developing essential movement-related skills for independence in schoolwork and self-care.
• Understand findings from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, which highlight that “more children are starting school without the foundation skills and resilience they need to succeed in education and life.”
• Discover how gross motor development is closely linked to a child’s ability to learn to write.

Venues & Dates:

• Stafford Learning Centre – 20 January 2025
• Hazel Trees – 23 April 2026

  ---

For more information or to book your place, contact: childrensOT@mpft.nhs.uk