Helpful Advice

A diagnostic assessment identifies whether a person has dyslexia. It includes background information, tests of underlying ability, processing speed and attainment. The results will be explained in a diagnostic assessment report, which will also include recommendations.

I am a qualified dyslexia assessor, a literacy specialist and an English teacher with 30 years
experience in secondary education. My recommendations and advice are informed by both recent research and many years of experience as a classroom practitioner.

I assess children and young people aged 8 to 18. For children under 8, it can be challenging to determine whether difficulties are due to dyslexia, or simply a natural developmental difference that will resolve itself with time and intervention. In these cases, targeted school support or tutoring may be more effective.

Before an assessment takes place, it is important that your child has had both a recent hearing test and an eye examination. This will rule out any difficulties with hearing and sight. You will also need to complete a visual stress questionnaire and a family and educational background questionnaire. This helps inform the testing, the reporting and the recommendations you will receive.

Schools generally determine exam access arrangements which may include extra time, access to a word processor, a reader or a scribe. The diagnostic assessment report will outline whether or not your child could benefit from those provisions. Ultimately, your child’s school must determine whether to accept and approve any recommendations in line with the JCQ.

Yes, if your child is diagnosed with dyslexia, they can apply for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) when attending college or university. Dyslexia qualifies as a specific learning difficulty eligible for support. Depending on the outcome, DSA may fund additional resources such as specialist equipment, study skills support, or other aids to enhance learning.

Yes, I offer online specialist tutoring sessions tailored to the learner’s needs, including literacy and study skills.

Bank transfer. More information on the timing of payments can be found in the Terms and Conditions.

Yes, as a qualified teacher, I have enhanced DBS clearance.