Assessments
The BDA provide comprehensive guidance on assessments.
We advise that before considering a full diagnostic assessment, individuals carry out a screening process designed to provide an indication of dyslexia.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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).
Students must be over 18 years to apply for the allowance.