A COUNCIL member at the University of Bradford has spoken of how she overcame struggle to flourish and succeed – and is hoping that others can break barriers just like she did.

Dame Sally Dicketts, who was included in the New Year’s Honours list, has dedicated her life to promoting the benefits of education, having led two innovative colleges - Milton Keynes and Activate Learning.

Dame Sally, who now delivers training and coaching to senior leaders, said her journey was far from easy, however.

During her school days, she struggled with basic spelling, and it was not until she was in her early 40s that she was diagnosed as dyslexic.

“I wasn’t diagnosed at school because people didn’t know what dyslexia was then. I was simply classed as ‘stupid,’,” she said.

“I was good at maths, but my spelling was atrocious. It wasn’t until I was working at Milton Keynes College that I was diagnosed.

“I was surprised, but it was also great because it meant I could tell students that even if you are dyslexic, you can still go places.

“I was lucky because I had people who believed in me - if I hadn’t had people like that, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Dame Sally had advice for those in Bradford who may have barriers of their own to compete with.

“Your brain is like a muscle - if you don’t use it, it gets flabby. Anyone can be clever, but you have to work at it. The harder you work, the cleverer you become,” she said.

“You also have to find something you are motivated by, and also, your emotions are your biggest trigger. Emotions switch off your prefrontal cortex and stop you learning, so you need to be in an environment where you feel emotionally secure.

“I don’t care what your background is, when these three things come together, if you work hard, anyone can achieve at a high level.”

Dame Sally also had high hopes for Bradford.

“I see inspiration, and I think being named City of Culture 2025 has helped focus that,” she said.

“I also think the University of Bradford has a very ‘can do’ attitude in terms of wanting to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Asked how she felt about receiving her DBE, she added: “I was humbled and surprised but for me, the honour was more a recognition of what further and higher education does for people.”