Assessments
The BDA provide comprehensive guidance on assessments.
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We advise that before considering a full diagnostic assessment, individuals carry out a screening process designed to provide an indication of dyslexia.​​
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Checklists
Checklists offer a useful starting point in collecting evidence towards a range of Specific Learning Difficulties, such as dyslexia.
They are a very good starting point when preparing for a full assessment.
Reputable sources:
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Screening
This is a brief overview of strengths and weaknesses to try and discover whether a person might have a specific learning difficulty [SpLD].
Screenings are carried out in schools.
They can be a very useful starting point, but they are not assessments.​​
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Full diagnostic assessment
Full diagnostic assessments usually have to be funded privately. They are not provided on the NHS or funded through school resources. Click here for more information.
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Finding an Assessor
Specialist teacher assessors must hold a current Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) for the assessment of specific learning difficulties. The APC must be current and will have been issued by a SASC approved professional association. There are currently three APC awarding bodies:
Ealing Dyslexia Association can provide a list of local assessors and educational psychologists.​​
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Assessment for Students in Higher Education (HE) and the Disabled Student Grant (DSA)
Students wishing to apply for a Disabled Students Allowance must be assessed by a practitioner who holds a
Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) or is an
Educational Psychologist (HPCP).
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Students must be over 18 years to apply for the allowance.