We’re celebrating Learning Disability Week 2025!

Seeing every learner for who they are

16th – 22nd June 2025 marks Learning Disability Week, a national campaign led by Mencap to celebrate the lives, voices and potential of people with learning disabilities. This year’s theme, “Do You See Me?”, is a powerful reminder to recognise and value the experiences of individuals with learning disabilities in every part of life - including education and work.

At Tempdent, we proudly support this message. As a specialist dental apprenticeships and training provider, we know that every learner brings unique strengths, perspectives and aspirations to their practices. This week is a timely opportunity to shine a light on the importance of inclusion - not just as a principle, but as a daily practice.

Kat Micheals, Head of Teaching, Education Welfare and Safeguarding Lead at Tempdent, says: “At the heart of everything we do is a strong belief that every learner deserves the opportunity to thrive. That’s why we’re deeply committed to supporting all students who declare a need for additional help - especially those with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

We know that academic success looks different for everyone, and our goal is to ensure that no one is held back from achieving their full potential whilst studying with us. From the moment a student lets us know they need support, we take action - providing tailored resources, compassionate guidance, and a learning environment where everyone can feel confident and capable.

Success isn’t one-size-fits-all, and we’re here to walk alongside each learner on their journey. Because when students feel supported, they achieve more - and that’s something worth investing in.”

Understanding, supporting and celebrating neurodiverse talent

People with learning disabilities, or who are neurodiverse, are often misunderstood or overlooked. At Tempdent, we believe in doing things differently.

We understand that not everyone learns in the same way, and that support shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why we take the time to understand how our learners think, process information, and engage best with their training.

Our approach centres around one idea: when learners feel seen, heard and supported, they thrive.

How do we support our learners with additional needs?

Whether you’re starting an apprenticeship or returning to training later in life, we’re here to help you succeed. Here’s how we support learners with additional needs at Tempdent:

1. Early identification and tailored support

From day one, we explore your learning style, strengths and support needs - so you can get the right help, right away. This might include additional learning strategies, one-to-one sessions, or tailored resources.

2. Personalised learning plans

We work closely with you to create a plan that reflects how you learn best. We also equip your tutors and mentors with tools and training to provide the support you need throughout your apprenticeship.

3. Built-in accessibility

We've embedded accessibility into every stage of the apprenticeship journey. From customisable learning content and dyslexia-friendly formats to built-in assistive technology and tailored Functional Skills support, we ensure all learners - regardless of background or ability - can engage, progress, and succeed, equally.

4. Confidence, not labels

We endorse an inclusive learning environment that focuses on showing you how your learning difficulties can be your superpower to remove stigma and promote strengths.

Creating an inclusive dental sector

Inclusion is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a learner, employer or tutor, we all have a role in making the dental profession more welcoming and supportive of neurodiverse and disabled individuals.

Employers who embrace neurodiversity often gain passionate, detail-focused and creative team members. That’s why we also work closely with dental practices to support inclusive recruitment and development practices - building stronger, more diverse dental teams.

Let’s keep the conversation going

Learning Disability Week isn’t just about raising awareness - it’s about action. Let’s continue to build a future where every learner feels supported, respected and able to shine.

Whether you’re starting your dental journey, looking to grow your skills, or hiring the next generation of professionals—Tempdent is here to support you.