The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre

At The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre, we assess, teach and support children and adults with Dyslexia. We are also able to support children with a range of other special educational needs. These services are delivered by a team of dedicated and highly qualified specialists.

The teaching at The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre is unique and enhances the education of pupils and students from both independent and state schools. We are passionate about educating and supporting students with specific learning difficulties, working in partnership with parents, carers and schools.

The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre is accredited by CReSTeD (the Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic Pupils). This signifies that the Centre provides specialist tuition on an individual basis, according to need.

We are also organisational members of the British Dyslexia Association.

The Centre is located on the High Road in Woodford Green, Essex and occupies a building on the Avon House School site.

Covid-19 update

We continue to follow Government guidance and the advice of professional bodies regarding how we operate and what services we can offer during the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the announcement on the 27th of January, education settings will not be able to reopen to pupils after the February half-term, but could possibly do so from the 8th of March. Therefore, the Centre is currently closed for all face-to-face teaching and assessments in order to keep our clients and team members safe.

Our team of Specialist Teachers will be offering online tuition throughout the lockdown; both long-term for those students who opt for it, and as a short-term measure when students are unable to attend face-to-face. Please email us if you would like further information about this and a member of the team will contact you.

Message from Fay Cookson

As many of you will know I retired from The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre at Christmas, after 23 years as Head. Being entrusted with the Centre, and upholding Sheila Ferrari’s original vision for providing pathways for those with learning differences, has been both a privilege and an exciting adventure. Over the years, I have witnessed the transformation of countless young people into confident, successful learners. I shall continue my connection with the Centre as Chair of the newly formed Governing body. The other Governors are David Malyon, Rosie Ford and Julia Hewerdine.

Now it is the turn of a new Head and we are delighted to welcome Annelize Alfredo to this role, to which she brings energy, expertise and enthusiasm. Most importantly she shares Sheila Ferrari’s passion for improving life for those with dyslexia. I am sure you will all join me in wishing Annelize great success as Head of The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre.

Message from Annelize Alfredo

My name is Annelize Alfredo, the new Head of Centre. It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I join The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre Team. Prior to coming to the Centre, my background entails being in Education for the last 23 years. The last position I held for many years was SENCO.

My passion for inclusive education stems from my belief that every child can and will succeed with the right provision. I am committed to providing inspiring and effective provision for all children and I consider myself fortunate to have been given this opportunity. I am looking forward to supporting you and your children for years to come.