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About Down Syndrome Education International

Down Syndrome Education International is a UK-based charity that works throughout the UK and around the world to improve education for young people with Down syndrome through scientific research and global information and advice services.


Our work

Our work currently helps over 100,000 people in over 180 countries annually. Our greatest impact to date through our research, publishing, training, consulting, education and advice services has been in predominantly English-speaking countries, but we are now working to ensure that the benefits of our work reach children speaking different languages and children living in less affluent parts of the world.

Our history

Down Syndrome Education International has been at the heart of educational research and support for young people with Down syndrome for the last 30 years. Our work began through a research project investigating reading that was led by Sue Buckley, a psychologist and mother of a child who has Down syndrome. The sharing of the practical outcomes of scientific research that helps to improve life for young people with Down syndrome and their families has remained central to our work ever since.

Our achievements

Over the last 30 years, our work has led to many key advancements in research and education for individuals with Down syndrome.

Our awards and recognition

The impact of the work we do has been recognised by awards and feedback from families and organisations around the world.

Our people

As well as its staff team, Down Syndrome Education International relies on the expertise, dedication and support of many people, including Trustees, patrons, and research advisors and partners.

Our finances

You can find out more details about our income, expenditure and activities by reading our annual report and accounts.

Our structure

Our structure enables us to operate effectively and efficiently in the UK, USA and around the world.

Our contact details

Down Syndrome Education International is based at The Sarah Duffen Centre in the south of England where we run our primary education and research centre.

In North America we work closely with our partner organisation Down Syndrome Education USA, a nonprofit based in southern California where we are developing a second education and research centre. The two organisations work closely together to achieve shared goals.

You can contact us in a variety of ways...


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