The Mount School’s Hope Day in What is dyslexia? film

Hope Day is in Year 8 at The Mount School in Dalton Terrace, which counts Oscar winning actress Dame Judi Dench among its former pupils.

And she is helping the charity Made By Dyslexia launch a new campaign that aims to transform what millions of children and parents find when they search “What is dyslexia?” online.

At the heart of the campaign is a new star-studded animation called What is Dyslexia? designed to bring a more balanced, strengths-based understanding of dyslexia to the top of search results. 

Recommended reading:

 13-year-old Hope, who recently she took on the role of Annie in York Light Opera’s rendition of the musical voices the main character, Lola, in the film which also features the voices of Jeremy Irons, Liv Tyler and Jaalen Best.

Hope Day took on the title role  in York Light Opera’s rendition of Annie Image: Matthew Kitchen

Hope discovered she is dyslexic when she was seven years old – following this she discovered Made By Dyslexia and learnt that her dyslexia means she is really creative, this then fuelled her passion for acting.

She said she wanted to be part of this film to help other children see that being dyslexic gives you brilliant strengths.

 “There is so much online that makes dyslexic children and young people feel like there is something wrong with them. When I was younger, I discovered Made By Dyslexia and it helped me find what I am really good at,” said Hope.

“I realised my creativity and passion for singing and dancing is thanks to my Dyslexic Thinking. I wanted to be part of this film to help other children see that being dyslexic gives you brilliant strengths.”

Hope during the recording (Image: Supplied)

Hollywood actor Jeremy Irons, the voice of the wise inventor said:  “Coming from a family of creative dyslexics, I know just how important it is that we ensure all dyslexic children understand their extraordinary strengths. Throughout history, dyslexics have played a role in many of the world’s most significant innovations, from the light bulb to the motor car.  

“I am so proud to be involved in this wonderful project and hope that everyone will support us in watching, sharing and reviewing the film, so that each year, millions of children and parents will find it at the top of their searches.” 

Jeremy Irons (Image: Mike Fordham)

Kate Griggs, executive producer of the film and founder of Made By Dyslexia, said: “Every year millions of children search online to understand what dyslexia means for their future, but what they find is often framed around difficulty. When that is the first story a young person hears about their mind, it can damage confidence before they understand their strengths. 

 “This campaign is about changing that first impression. As a dyslexic, parent of dyslexic children, and the founder of Made By Dyslexia, I know how vital this is. By bringing a more balanced and empowering understanding of dyslexia to the top of search, we can help young people see confidence, capability and their bright futures.” 

Hope with charity founder, Kate Griggs (Image: Supplied)

The film and campaign launches today (Friday, April24) followed by a premiere at the UK’s biggest cinema screen the BFI IMAX in London on Saturday, April 25.

You can now watch the film at www.whatisdyslexia.org. Every comment, share and review helps towards ensuring the film reaches the top of search right across the world.  

Hope is a pupil at The Mount School in York (Image: Supplied)