Full Diagnostic Assessments
A full diagnostic assessment includes tests of language and reasoning (including phonological awareness), the cognitive processing skills implicated in dyslexia (aspects of memory, phonological processing speed), reading, spelling, and writing. A short maths task may be included if maths difficulties are reported (NB We do not offer full diagnostic assessments for dyscalculia).
A full diagnostic assessment may not result in a diagnosis of dyslexia but it will provide a detailed understanding of learning strengths and challenges, and it will give personalised recommendations for support. Recommendations for Exam Access Arrangements (EAAs), if appropriate, will also be made, although EAAs are awarded at the discretion of the educational setting. Details of other professionals may also be given (occupational therapists, speech and language therapists etc.), if co-occurring difficulties are suspected.
Full diagnostic assessments take approximately 3 hours to complete. These take place face-to-face in Shamley Green (Guildford GU5) or at the learner's home/school (depending on location, this may incur additional cost to cover travel expenses/time).
We are able to assess children and young adults aged 8-21 years old.
Step-by-step guide to the assessment process:
- Contact us to arrange a no-obligation initial consultation via phone to discuss your concerns.
- If an eyetest has not been carried out in the previous 2 years this needs to be done before an assessment can take place. If glasses are prescribed, the assessee will need time to adjust to them first (as vision affects literacy development).
- Three background information questionnaires are sent (family, visual difficulties and school (if applicable)) so that we gain a holistic view of the assessee and can tailor our assessment and recommendations. Once completed and returned, we can confirm that a specialist teacher assessment is the best course of action and we will arrange a mutually convenient date for an assessment. A booking deposit is payable to secure the date.
- The assessment takes place, usually in the morning.
- Report, including recommendations, is sent electronically (usually within 2 weeks), upon receipt of the balance of the total assessment fee.
- Follow-up feedback telephone/Teams/Zoom call is arranged, if desired, to answer any questions.
Cost: £595
Our highly qualified, experienced assessor holds an Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) and is registered with PATOSS. While an APC is not a mandatory requirement for assessors, it demonstrates a commitment to quality and up-to-date knowledge of assessment procedures. Should the learner wish to apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) for university in future, a report written by an assessor holding an APC is a requirement.
