Faqs

What is dyslexia?

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Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that affects the skills involved in reading and spelling. Common features of dyslexia are challenges with phonological awareness, memory and processing speed. 

However, dyslexia does not just affect reading and writing. Individuals have their own strengths and challenges.

Co-occurring difficulties may be seen with aspects of language, co-ordination, concentration and personal organisation.

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What is dyslexia? - British Dyslexia Association (bdadyslexia.org.uk)

 

Why have an assessment for dyslexia?

 

An assessment can be useful to determine the strengths and weaknesses of a learners profile.  This information can then be used to support progress and develop self belief in the individual.  Having a report shared with teachers can help to develop a clear understanding of the learner.

 

Dyslexia is not always diagnosed in an assessment.  However, a report is still produced with detailed information on the learner.  This will ensure that personal recommendation are given to support the learner with their difficulties.

 

All reports include a detailed examination of the individuals strengths and weaknesses and include a section with a clear list of strategies, interventions and suggested support.

 

Dyslexia is recognised as a disability under the 2010 Equality Act. This means that schools, colleges, universities and workplaces are legally required to make reasonable adjustments to support an individual. 

 

Furthermore, a diagnosis of dyslexia lasts for life and it is not necessary to have another assessment later in life. 

 

What happens during an assessment?

 

Once your appointment has been booked, we will send out the following:

 

• Background information from family - this includes information relating to concerns, family history, prior experiences in education etc.

• A questionnaire to be sent to your child’s school - this includes questions relating to current education progress and attainment.

• Details of the venue for the face to face assessment or links for a virtual assessment. We will send equipment requirements for the virtual assessment - a screen larger than a phone is required.

• After the assessment, you will receive a brief summary report within 48 hours and a detailed report within 2-3 weeks.

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What age can learners be assessed? 

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We recommend waiting until 7 years of age and we will not test children younger than this.  The reason for this is that some young children develop at a different rate and it's important to rule out development immaturity prior to diagnosing dyslexia.