What is Stargardts?
Stargardts is a genetic condition that effects the retina (the back of the eye). It occurs when there is gradual degeneration of the light-sensitive cells. The cells that are affected are responsible for our central vision. This means that Stargardts causes gradual loss of central vision.
Stargardts usually develops in early childhood or adolescence. It is a progressive condition, though the rate and level of progression varies from person to person.
How Stargardts affects vision
Someone with Stargardts may notice that their central vision has darkened and/or become increasingly blurry. In some cases, a person with Stargardts will have no useful central vision. CYP with Stargardts may have some usable vision remaining in their periphery (their side fields of vision) and so they may use this for access to their learning.
Education strategies that can help
If there is remaining vision, strategies should aim to maximise use of that vision.
- The child or young person (CYP) should have their own copies of reading materials, avoiding sharing with others.
- The CYP may need to hold their tablet or reading materials at a specific angle or position, to maximise use of any remaining vision.
- Upskill the CYP with technology as soon as possible: maximise use of tablets and laptops, appropriate apps and software, and add development of typing skills to their curriculum.
- Provide resources in an appropriate font size, with clear presentation on A4 paper.
- Consider trialling alternative background colours to white, when using a tablet or laptop. The CYP may find a black background with white or yellow writing easier to see.
- If using an image, provide an image description. Be aware that depending upon their level of remaining vision, they may benefit from tactile images and diagrams.
- The CYP may need information displayed on their teachers classroom board/screen to be shared a device such as a tablet or laptop. This is called screen-sharing (or screen-mirroring).
- The CYP may need to rest their vision regularly to help prevent visual fatigue. A good rule to follow is every twenty minutes. Some CYP like to close their eyes for 20-30 seconds.
- The CYP may need extra time to complete tasks. In key stages 3-5, this will need to be considered their normal way of working and taken into consideration for their exam access arrangements (EAA).
- As an adult, verbalise your feelings as the CYP may not be able to see your facial expressions or body language. This will help them make good choices when in your classroom, as well as anticipate when you might raise your voice.
- Use adapted resources in PE lessons such as a noisy ball (a ball with a bell or whistle), high-vis shuttlecocks and jumbo tennis balls. More information is available here: PE – Support for schools and settings.
- Depending upon the CYP’s level of vision, they may benefit from opportunities for pre- and post-teaching. This will help ensure that new concepts are fully understood and retained.
Finally, as Stargardts usually develops in early childhood or adolescence, this means that the CYP go through an adjustment process. This can understandably be very difficult for the CYP and their families. Please speak with your Advisory Teacher as soon as possible to raise any concerns about the child or young person, so that support can be offered and appropriate services can be signposted.