Non-verbal teenager who wrote a book with his eyes says he’s ‘voice of the voiceless’

Breaking Down Barriers: The Inspiring Story of Jonathan Bryan

Jonathan Bryan, a young man with severe cerebral palsy, has shattered stereotypes and challenged the education system through his extraordinary journey. Diagnosed with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) early in his school life, Jonathan was placed on a sensory curriculum, relegating him to early years education. However, his mother recognized his potential and took matters into her own hands, teaching him to read and write using an alphabet board. Today, Jonathan is a published author and a creative writing student at the University of Bath, proving that labels do not define one’s capabilities. His story is a testament to the power of presumption of competence and the importance of tailored education for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Beyond the Label: Redefining PMLD

Jonathan’s journey highlights the flawed assumptions surrounding PMLD labels. These labels are often assigned without assessing a child’s cognitive abilities, leading to a "self-fulfilling prophecy" where children are not taught to read or write simply because it is assumed they never will. Jonathan emphasizes that PMLD is merely an educational label, not a diagnosis. He advocates for moving beyond these labels to focus on each child’s unique potential. His message is clear: being non-verbal does not equate to a lack of intellect. These children are not given the opportunity to learn because it is assumed they cannot, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and neglect.

From Silence to Voice: Jonathan’s Advocacy

Over the past decade, Jonathan has emerged as a powerful "voice of the voiceless," championing the rights of non-verbal and complex needs individuals. He stresses that society often ignores these individuals because they do not conform to traditional communication standards. This marginalization stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of non-verbal communication. Jonathan’s advocacy has brought attention to the systemic issues within education, encouraging educators and policymakers to rethink their approach to teaching students with SEND. His work challenges the status quo and calls for a more inclusive and equitable education system.

A Decade of Change: Progress and Challenges

Despite significant strides in his personal achievements and advocacy, Jonathan acknowledges that much work remains to be done. He criticizes the education system for failing to prioritize literacy education for students with complex needs, relying instead on individual teachers and schools to raise their expectations. While the UK government has outlined plans to improve inclusivity and support for SEND students, systemic barriers persist. Jonathan’s decade-long campaign underscores the importance of systemic change to ensure every child, regardless of their label, has access to the education they deserve.

The Power of Education: Jonathan’s Journey

Jonathan’s personal achievements exemplify the transformative power of education. If his mother had not intervened to teach him to read and write, he believes his life would have been isolated and devoid of meaningful communication. Instead, through her determination, Jonathan discovered his voice and authored a book, proving that with the right support, individuals with complex needs can achieve extraordinary things. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when given the opportunity to thrive.

A Call to Action: Empowering Students and Educators

Jonathan’s message is simple yet profound: "Please don’t underestimate your pupils." He urges teachers to recognize the potential in all students, regardless of their labels or communication barriers. To those who are non-speaking or have complex needs, he says, "Non-speaking is not the same as non-thinking." He encourages individuals with similar experiences to share their stories through his charity, Teach Us Too, fostering a community of support and advocacy. As Jonathan continues his studies and advocacy, his story serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive future. It reminds us that education is not just about academic achievement but about unlocking the potential of every individual, regardless of their abilities.