A brief History
As a professional association of teachers of students with specific learning difficulties, Patoss is for all those concerned with the teaching and support of pupils with SpLD: dyslexic, dyspraxic, ADD, and Aspergers syndrome.

Patoss was formed in 1987 as an association representing teachers who had gained the RSA Diploma for Teachers of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties. Since then, the number of Patoss members has grown to over 2000, working with students across the age range from primary through adult.

Since the RSA (now OCR) Diploma and Certificate for Teachers of Learners with Specific Learning Difficulties were introduced, many other high quality training courses now exist and we are all aware of the importance of co-operation between professionals working to help children and adults with SpLD.

Membership is open to qualified teachers in SpLD and those studying for either the certificate or the diploma in SpLD. Patoss has widened its membership to include other professionals who are working in the field of specific learning difficulties.

Many of our members teach in schools and colleges. Many provide one-to-one tuition to students with specific learning difficulties. This includes assessment of current level of knowledge and ability, planning programmes of work, delivering those programmes, advising on the broader educational programme, and liaising with other professionals.

As a professional association we provide a range of services to our members which are detailed on following pages. We welcome new members and hope that you will apply to join.

Patoss aims:

• to establish and maintain the professional status of those qualified to teach students with specific learning difficulties;
  
  
• to promote the continued provision and development of appropriate specialist qualifications in the teaching of students with SpLD;
  
  
• to enable members to update and extend their knowledge and skills and to exchange ideas through an annual conference, bulletins and local groups;
• to promote fuller understanding and recognition of SpLD;
• to promote links with teachers working with SpLD students in all sectors of education;
• to promote links with other professionals involved in the field of SpLD;
• to give a professional corporate response to the Department for Education and Employment (DfEE) on matters affecting SpLD students;
• to maintain a register of the members of the association, Patoss.

Patoss offers:

• links with other professionals;
• opportunities to keep in touch with recent research, and to exchange knowledge and experience; a range of publications;
• reduced fees for Patoss national conferences and local events;
• a growing network of local groups;
• different levels of insurance (details on application).