Teacher union looks to tackle colour blindness

Education union the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) has been praised for forwarding a motion to support colour blind children in schools at its Spring Conference late last month.

A research project by ATL had found a shortfall in awareness and diagnosis of colour blindness in learning institutions.

The Colour Blind Awareness organisation described colour vision deficiency as a hidden disability that was often not tested for, while worksheets and educational products were not being designed with colour blind pupils in mind.

Kathryn Albany-Ward, founder of Colour Blind Awareness, said: ‘We are pleased to support ATL’s recent research into the awareness of colour blindness amongst its members. The ATL research reveals that despite our recent #1ineveryclassroom campaign receiving widespread media coverage, including television, only 15% of ATL Members surveyed said they have one or more pupils in their educational setting who require some support with learning because of their colour blindness.’