What is a Diagnostic Assessment?

Starting in April 2025, I will be offering diagnostic assessments designed to identify dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties. These assessments provide a detailed understanding of your child's strengths and challenges, along with actionable recommendations to support their learning.

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Holding an Assessment Practicing Certificate means that this report would allow your child to apply for DSA should they wish to go onto Higher Education.

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The Department of Education (DfE) announced that a diagnostic assessment conducted at any age, which results in a diagnosis of dyslexia, will be accepted as part of an application for Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA). This is a yearly grant toward studies as well the student receiving a learning support plan through the university.  However, these reports will only be accepted if written by an assessor holding a valid APC at the time of the assessment.

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This assessment can also be used in the future to support

•    Workplace adjustments, refer to the Access to Work scheme.

•    Driving Support:  For learning to drive, refer to guidance on reasonable adjustments for the driving theory test.

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What Does the Assessment Involve?

• Duration: The assessment will take approximately 2½ to 3½ hours, including short breaks as needed.

• Activities: A series of child-friendly tasks designed to evaluate:

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Spelling

  • Memory

  • Cognitive skills
    All activities are engaging, with the longest task lasting no more than 15 minutes to maintain focus.

Location

The assessments will be conducted at:
Sir Thomas Dunk’s Schoolroom
Dunk’s Hall, Hawkhurst, Kent

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The room has been recently refurbished to provide a calm and welcoming environment, with:

• Access to a toilet and kitchen.

• A fridge for storing snacks and drinks.

• A child-friendly atmosphere to ensure your child feels at ease during the session.

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What to Expect

• Before the Assessment:

  • You’ll complete a pre-assessment questionnaire to provide background information about your child’s development, educational experiences, and any specific concerns.

  • A short academic questionnaire will also be sent to your child’s school for their input.

• After the Assessment:

  • Within 14 days, you’ll receive a comprehensive diagnostic report of approx. 25 pages, detailing the findings and providing tailored recommendations to support your child’s learning.

  • A feedback session will be arranged to discuss the results and next steps.

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Cost and Payment Options

• The cost for the full diagnostic assessment is £550, which includes:

  • Pre-assessment consultation.

  • The 2½ to 3½ hour assessment session.

  • A comprehensive diagnostic report.

  • A feedback session to review findings and recommendations.

• Payment Options:

  • Payment can be made in two or three instalments, with the full balance due prior to the assessment day. 

Availability and How to Book

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• Availability: A waiting list is now open for parents interested in booking assessments starting in April 2025.

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