About dyslexia assessmentIt will involve a series of psychometric tests to measure spatial, verbal, memory, reading and spelling in a standardised way to compare with the normal range of these skills.
The report outlines strengths and weaknesses, and indicates if an individual has a specific learning difficulty, such as dyslexia, as well as providing important information about specific learning needs and suggestions for action.
Reasons to have your child assessed.“If a child cannot learn the way we teach we must teach her/him the way s/he can learn. ”
The teacher needs to recognise that the dyslexic child in the classroom has a different way of learning and therefore needs a different way of teaching.
An assessment can help a child to understand that there is a genuine reason for their difficulties, which can really improve their confidence.
Click here for more information about getting your child assessed
“After the assessment, Logan asked me if he was dyslexic, I told him yes he was. He said ‘phew’. I asked him why he said that and he replied, ‘it’s good because now I can go to school and tell my friends that I’m not stupid, I’m dyslexic.’ I had a lump in my throat, I really didn’t realise how badly it had affected him. ”
Logan's Mum
Access Arrangements (for Examinations)
If a specific learning difficulty is diagnosed as a result of the assessment, you can request 'concessions' during examinations and course work. Please note that in the case of GCSE and 'A' level, you will need to submit your request by mid-February (prior to final examinations). Allowances for assessed work can be considered at the start of the course. A student may apply for allowances for assessed work and Access Arrangements for final examinations at the same time. If clearly stated in the assessment report, only one report is necessary to cover the two year period.
Reasons to have yourself assessed.Whether in the work place or in higher education many people do not realise that they are dyslexic, for many a diagnosis comes as a relief as it is an explanation for difficulties they may have encountered throughout their lives.
Click here for more information about getting yourself assessed
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
Local Education Authorities (LEAs) can grant DSA to undergraduates and certain postgraduates who have dyslexia (check with your LEA to see if your course is included). Although payments do not cover the cost of diagnosis, DSA is well worth applying for. You could be eligible for thousands of pounds to help with equipment such as computers and tutorial help with your course or dyslexia support. Your LEA will need evidence of dyslexia, from a current diagnostic assessment. Applications can be made at any stage during the course.
Workplace Consultation
“I'm 20 years old and was only diagnosed with dyslexia a year ago despite being tested for it when i was 7 and the education system not recognising it. I've gone through all my school life being treated like a really dumb person needing real help but no-one seemed to take a look at me!! After skinning my teeth with GCSEs and A-levels, i'm now thankfully going onto a BA Hons degree course with the full support i should of had 15 years ago! ”
Facebook User
“I have been doing a accountancy course at college and have been struggling to pass one unit, it was only when i got assessed a couple of years ago and found that i was dyslexic did i find out that i could be allowed the use of a computer and /or 25% extra time to complete the written exam paper. I did my exam the other week and got given the use ... See moreof the computer and 25% extra time, so it seems if you dont ask you dont get with schools and colleges. The invegilator said that it seems that in a few years most of exams will be online/computer based and some of the exam boards are already doing "online" examinations. I certainly found it a lot easier to compose my answers using the computer rather than hand writting them. Computer based exams could become a advantage for dyslexic students! ”
Facebook user
Adults can complete our online screener to help decide whether full assessment is required.
If you are concerned that you or a family member may be dyslexic then please click here to find your local centre who will be able to offer you advice, support and pricing information.