How to become a specialist teacher with BDA accreditation
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Accredited Practitioner Status (APS)
What is APS?
Accredited Practitioner Status (APS), is an accreditation for those who do not hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and have successfully completed a BDA accredited course for teaching learners with specific learning difficulties/dyslexia.
Holders of Accredited Practitioner Status are recognised as specialist teachers and are able to conduct informal, curriculum-based assessments and deliver specialist teaching programmes to learners with SpLD/dyslexia up to, and including, 18 years of age who are educated in a school setting.
Who can apply for APS?
Applicants who have successfully completed a BDA accredited course for APS within the last three years can apply.
Applicants must have a minimum of two years (1,900 hours) relevant professional experience teaching/supporting learners up to, and including, 18 years of age in a school setting. This may be a full-time or part-time posts.
You may also apply for APS via an Individual Merit route if you have significant experience in the teaching of learners with SpLD, and have completed an SpLD course more than 5 years ago, however this should not be seen as an alternative to taking a course in teaching learners with SpLD/dyslexia.
How to apply for APS
To apply for APS you will need to start your online application via the Professional Membership page:
- You will need a completed and upload it as part of the application process
- You will need to read and agree to adhere to the BDA Code of Ethics
- If your employer is paying, please request an invoice.
Courses accredited for APS
All courses are taught at postgraduate Level 7 unless otherwise stated.
Course provider | More information |
Miles Dyslexia Centre, Bangor University of Wales | |
Bath Spa University | |
| Bellavista School, South Africa | |
University of Birmingham (eLearning) | |
文轩探花 (BDA) (eLearning) | Level 5 Certificate in Dyslexia, Literacy, Support and Intervention |
Canterbury Christ Church University | |
| Cardiff Metropolitan University | |
University of Chester | |
Dyslexia Action | |
| Dyslexia Matters (Gateway) | |
Edge Hill University | |
| Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity | |
| The Learning Support Centre Leicester | |
| Liverpool Hope University | |
University College London, IOE | |
University of South Wales | |
Stranmillis University College, Belfast (eLearning) | |
Wrexham Glynd诺r University | Postgraduate Certificate in Dyslexia |
Progressing to AMBDA
On successful completion of an APS course specialist teachers can apply for courses leading to Accredited with the BDA (AMBDA) status which will enable them to conduct formal diagnostic assessments, write diagnostic reports and assess for exam access arrangements.
To find out more visit the AMBDA webpage.
Keeping APS 'Active'
We expect holders of BDA accreditations to keep their practice up to date and submit a CPD portfolio every three years on the anniversary of their award.
Find out more on the Continuing Professional Development webpage.