Coming Together for Inclusive Literacy

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, marks an exciting step forward for inclusive education across the UK, as representatives from a range of organisations and professionals come together to launch the Alliance for Inclusive Literacy.

Born from a shared belief that every learner has the right to literacy education, the Alliance brings together voices from education, research, and advocacy to drive change in how literacy is taught, supported, and valued for all pupils — including those with complex needs and disabilities.

Our founding meeting this term was filled with energy, insight, and a clear sense of purpose. Together, we explored the challenges that persist in ensuring every child can access meaningful reading and writing instruction, and the opportunities we have to make a difference by working collaboratively.

By the end of the session, we had agreed on the parameters for our mission statement, capturing what unites us and what we aim to achieve together:

The Alliance for Inclusive Literacy exists to ensure that everyone has access to meaningful, progressive literacy education — including access to text and print and active participation in the development of reading and writing skills. We believe that everyone, including those who are non-speaking or physically disabled, can and should be taught literacy through inclusive, evidence-informed approaches that enable each learner to make progress. We unite voices to raise expectations, transform practice, and lead change towards a more inclusive literacy landscape.

Our next steps will focus on building connections, identifying barriers, and amplifying examples of effective practice from across the UK. We’re committed to influencing policy, empowering educators, and ensuring literacy is recognised as a right for all — not a privilege for some.

This is just the beginning of a movement that will grow stronger through collaboration. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us at this first meeting for your expertise, passion, and commitment to change.

Stay tuned as we begin to share updates, reflections, and ways to get involved. Together, we can make inclusive literacy the expectation in every classroom.

Posted by Teach Us Too, on behalf of the founding members of the Alliance for Inclusive Literacy.