Research Study: The Impact of an Accessible Literacy Programme for Children with PMLD and Visual Impairment

This peer-reviewed research explores the educational impact of Marvin’s Story Time Show, an accessible literacy programme designed for children and young people with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), including those with vision impairment, complex needs and multi-sensory learning requirements.

The study focuses on the experiences of teaching staff who implemented the programme within specialist educational settings. Through qualitative interviews, researchers examined how accessible storytelling, sensory engagement and inclusive literacy approaches influenced teacher confidence, classroom practice and pupil participation.

Marvin’s Story Time Show was developed to make story experiences meaningful, engaging and accessible for learners who may experience significant barriers to traditional literacy teaching. The programme combines structured storytelling with high-contrast visual materials, repetition, sensory elements and opportunities for active participation.

Why Accessible Literacy Matters

Children with profound and multiple learning difficulties often face challenges accessing conventional literacy activities. Accessible literacy programmes aim to remove barriers by adapting teaching methods, learning environments and resources to meet individual needs.

Research has consistently highlighted the importance of:

• Inclusive literacy opportunities for all learners
• Multi-sensory teaching approaches
• High-contrast and accessible visual materials
• Consistency and repetition to support engagement
• Personalised learning experiences based on individual responses
• Professional development for teachers supporting learners with complex needs

Creating accessible literacy experiences can help pupils develop communication, engagement, anticipation, choice making, participation and enjoyment of shared storytelling.

Impact on Teaching Practice

The findings of this research demonstrate that accessible literacy programmes can have benefits that extend beyond pupil engagement. Teachers reported increased professional confidence and a greater understanding of how environmental adaptations can support learning.

Participants described making practical changes to classroom environments, including reducing visual clutter, improving the use of contrast and simplifying learning materials. These adaptations enabled teaching staff to better observe pupil responses and tailor learning opportunities accordingly.

The study also highlights the importance of collaborative practice, with staff sharing ideas, strategies and observations to improve outcomes for children with PMLD and visual impairment.

About Marvin’s Story Time Show

Marvin’s Story Time Show is an online accessible storytelling programme created by Positive Eye. Designed specifically for children and young people with vision impairment, CVI, PMLD and complex learning needs, the programme provides engaging story experiences supported by downloadable resources and accessible teaching materials.

The approach encourages participation, communication and enjoyment while supporting practitioners and families to develop confidence in delivering accessible story sessions.