The public are invited to attend a lecture on dyslexia at the Bermuda College this weekend.

The programme is part of a week-long conference at the college in partnership with The Dyslexic Foundation, which is expected to attract education experts from around the world.

The conference will examine the role of executive function – a set of mental skills that includes working memory, flexible thinking and self-control.

DPhyllis Curtis-Tweed, the vice-president of academic and student affairs at the college, said: “We use these skills every day to learn, work, and manage daily life.

“Trouble with executive function can make it hard to focus, follow directions, and handle emotions, among other things.”

Dr Curtis-Tweed said that, according to research, executive function disorders have escalated during the Covid-19 pandemic.

She said: “People with neurodevelopmental disorders like dyslexia or ADHD, or neurological disorders like epilepsy often struggle with executive functions.

“Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, and some personality disorders, may also feature executive function disorders.”

The public session – which is open to parents, educators, social workers and anyone wanting to learn more about executive function – will be held this Saturday at the new Athene Lecture Theatre on the College campus, between 8.30am and 3.30pm.

Dr Curtis-Tweed described the session as a great opportunity for those who have, know, or teach children who need learning support, or for parents who have children, or educators who may teach students who may be exhibiting mental health issues, but who may have not been formally diagnosed.