Frequently Asked Questions

In 2009, Sir Jim Rose conducted an independant review of dyslexia and concluded with the following definition:

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. Characteristic features of dyslexia are difficulties in phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed. Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. It is best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category, and there are no clear cut-off points. Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor co-ordination, mental calculation, concentration and personal organisation, but these are not, by themselves, markers of dyslexia. A good indication of the severity and persistence of dyslexic difficulties can be gained by examining how the individual responds or has responded to well-founded intervention.

(Rose, 2009)

A dyslexia assessment involves a thorough conversation with the individual about their learning history and experiences. This allows a more accurate interpretation of test scores. Tests are conducted to measure cognitive abiltiy and literacy attainment. This includes:

Verbal ability

Visual ability

Working memory

Phonological processing (sounds within words)

processing speed

reading

spelling 

writing/typing

If you are over 16, yes. We can adminster additional assessment tools that will show whether you are also experiencing traits characteristic of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or developmental coordination disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia in the UK.

For under 16s, we cannot assess for ADHD or DCD. However, we may be able to discuss any recognisable traits during the assessment session. We would then refer you on to an appropriate health care professional to investigate further.

No. Since May 2022, specialist teachers have not been able to assess for autism. This is because autism is highly complex and requires a multidisciplinary team to identify, assess and support. Traits of autism can co-occur with dyslexia, ADHD and DCD. Therefore, according to the SASC (The SpLD Assessment Standards Committee) report completed in 2022, specialist teachers can document relevant developmental characteristics and experiences with permission from the individual. However, an onward referral to an appropriate healthcare professional should be made. 

Its really simple. Just send us a quick message requesting an assessment. Just let us know what kind of assessment you are interested in. We will send you a pre-assessment questionnaire which needs to be completed prior to booking. If you need assistance in completing this, please let us know so that we can accommodate any specific needs. 

Assessment times can vary depending on your specific needs. You will be asked to set aside three hours for your assessment. 

Great question. Dyslexia, ADHD and DCD are very complex. Each neurodiversity looks different depending on your individuality, your background and your experiences. We need to get to know you before you attend your assessment so that we can be prepared and make sure you get the most out of your assessment. Some people find these forms quite daunting to complete. Don't worry! We offer a pre-assessment consultation to help you complete this form. It might also be useful to complete the form with someone who knows you well. 

Please contact us and complete the pre-assessment questionnaire that we will send you.

We require that you have your eyes checked within a year of your assessment. This is to ensure that there are no visual difficulties that might be impacting on your literacy attainment.

Please let us know if you have any hearing impairments. If you think you have experienced hearing loss, it is strongly advised that you seek a hearing assessment before booking an assessment for a specific learning difference (SpLD). 

Disabled Student's Allowances (DSAs) is available to students with a diagnosed learning difference under the Equality Act (2010). You can apply for DSAs via the UK Government website. You need to provide evidence of a specific learning difference such as dyslexia. We can provide reports suitable for DSA application. If you need help with funding your dyslexia assessment for DSAs purposes, please contact your university for more information as they may be able to financially support you through the process.

Children's assessments are charged at £500. This includes a full diagnostic assessment and comprehensive report. 

Please note, children's assessments will be conducted in person with the assessor traveling to you or your child's school, where appropriate. Additional charges may apply depending on the location of the assessment. Please contact me for more information.

If cost is a barrier to your child gaining an assessment, please contact me to discuss payment options.

Adult assessments are £500 - £600. 

The standard assessment is £500, which includes a full assessment of cognitive abilties and literacy skills. You will receive a comprehensive report including individual recommendations. This will be appropriate for DSA purposes (Disabled Students Allowances) for university study.

For additional explorations such as ADHD and DCD, there is an additonal fee. For example, an SpLD assessment including ADHD would be £600. Again, you will receive a comprehensive report including individual recommendations. This will be appropriate for DSA purposes (Disabled Students Allowances) for university study.

Please note, adult assessments are usually delivered remotely via zoom, so there is no need to travel.

Individual tuition sessions are £50 per hour. 

Group tuition sessions can be negotiated depending on the number of children and the location of the sessions.