‘Teachers wrote me off but now I think dyslexia is my superpower’

A spokesperson for the British Dyslexia Association described the condition as a “lifelong neurological difference that affects how the brain processes information”.

“While it can present challenges in education, employment and everyday life, each person has a unique profile of strengths and areas of difficulty,” the spokesperson said.

“Many dyslexic people develop resilience, problem-solving skills and other valuable strengths.”

Sam said the behaviours that made her a “bad student” at school – being loud and chatty – had helped her to thrive outside it.

She is now helping other young people into the industry by taking on apprentices.

“I think [apprenticeships] are a really good opportunity for people who aren’t academic,” she said, adding it gave her great joy to see young people flourish.

Former apprentice Tony Mitchell, who has worked at Sam’s salon for more than a decade, said it was a “really supportive” environment.

He joined when he was 20, following a change in career from carpentry. Now, at 33, he is a hairstylist.

“At a previous salon, I was told I was too moody. But I felt no-one really took the time to show me the ropes like Sam did,” Tony said.

“I was always a shy kid, and this place has helped me become more confident and to feel like I belong.”