Dr Peter Bowers To Present At BCCL
The Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning [BCCL] will host Dr. Peter Bowers, who will present “Making Words Make Sense: Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive” on September 26–27 at the BCCL Student Center in Hamilton.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning [BCCL] is proud to welcome Dr. Peter Bowers, internationally recognised researcher, author and founder of WordWorks Literacy Centre, for a series of events designed to help parents and educators better support students with dyslexia and other learning differences.
“Dr. Bowers will present Making Words Make Sense: Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive on September 26–27, 2025, at the BCCL Student Center, 41 Cedar Avenue, Hamilton.
“These workshops will be based on Dr. Bower’s groundbreaking research on Structured Word Inquiry [SWI], an evidence-based approach to teaching reading, spelling, and vocabulary that explores word origins, structures, and meanings.
Parent Info Session: September 26, 6:00–7:30 pm
- Open to all parents in Bermuda
- Learn more about Structured Word Inquiry and what strategies you can use to support your child.
- Please note that this session is for adults only and childcare will not be provided.
Educator Professional Development Workshop: September 27, 9:00 am–3:00 pm
- Open to all public and private school educators who teach Primary 4 and above.
- Lunch will be provided
- Learn Structured Word Inquiry [SWI] principles: Use word origins, structure, and meaning to support learners with dyslexia.
- Practice classroom strategies: Guide students in word investigations that build engagement and confidence.
- Support diverse readers: Combine SWI with phonics to strengthen decoding, spelling, and vocabulary.
“It is estimated that one in five children worldwide has a learning difference, with dyslexia being the most common one. Students with dyslexia are bright and capable but may struggle with reading and spelling if their unique learning styles are not understood. With the right tools and support, they can thrive academically and beyond.”
“I’ve spent my career showing teachers, parents and students that English spelling isn’t irregular or random – it makes sense,” said Dr. Bowers. “When students, especially those with dyslexia, are given tools to study words through meaning and structure, they not only build skills but also rediscover joy and confidence in reading and writing.”
The spokesperson said, “Dr. Bower’s visit is made possible through the generous support of Ascot Bermuda, whose gift reflects a commitment to advancing literacy education in Bermuda.”
“We are grateful for their support,” said Director of Advancement and Communications, Jane Vickers, “without it, none of this would be possible.”
The spokesperson said, “Hosting accessible workshops and shifting the conversation about learning differences is central to BCCL’s mission — raising awareness and advocating for students across Bermuda who learn differently.”
“We are thrilled to bring Dr. Bowers to Bermuda at such an important time,” said Cindy Corday, BCCL Co-Founder and Head of School. “October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and these events are part of our ongoing work to equip families, schools and communities with the tools they need to understand and support diverse learners. Dyslexia is not a barrier to success – with early identification and evidence-based teaching, children can flourish. At BCCL, we see this every day.”
The spokesperson said, “As part of Dyslexia Awareness Month, BCCL will continue to share resources and promote literacy awareness through its annual island-wide #UntilEveryChildCanReadBDA campaign, encouraging earlier intervention and reducing stigma. Families can find more information and free parent resources on their website.
The spokesperson said, “Attendance to Making Words Make Sense: Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive is free; however, space is limited and registration is mandatory. For details and registration, please visit www.bccl.bm.”
Read More About
Category: All
