We offer 3 options for dyslexia assessments for children. For under 16âs we can provide an assessment with verbal feedback only or include a comprehensive written report to inform schools and EHCPs. We can also provide an extended assessment for 14-18 year olds which includes extra testing, support for Higher Education, a Form 8 application and access to the disability student allowance.
Dyslexia Assessments
Professional Assessment Service To Help Identify Dyslexia
Accessing Support Through Assessments
If you or someone you support is struggling with literacy, completing studies, or meeting requirements at work, you may be considering a diagnostic dyslexia assessment. Assessments can offer clarity and reassurance by exploring how you learn and what type of support might be helpful. Assessments offer confirmation of whether a person is dyslexic, and provide practical recommendations, including adjustments for school, university, or the workplace.
What to Expect
During a dyslexia assessment, youâll meet with one of our qualified Level 7 assessors with an APC certificate. They will guide you through a series of activities designed to understand how you process information and your current skill levels. These may include tasks related to reading, spelling, memory, and problem-solving. The session is relaxed and supportive, with plenty of time for breaks and questions.
Childrenâs Assessments
Adult Assessments
Our adult assessments help bring clarity and understanding to the challenges you may have experienced, often offering a sense of validation and relief. We assess reading, writing, spelling, and underlying verbal, visual, memory, and processing skills. The results can provide a formal diagnosis (if present) and a clear profile of strengths and difficulties, along with guidance on adjustments and support in work or education.
Online Assessments
We offer online dyslexia assessments for people aged 14+, which include the same activities and testing as our in-person assessments. These are carried out via Microsoft Teams, allowing you to take part from a comfortable space at home. The process remains structured, with your assessor guiding you through each step just as they would face-to-face.
FAQs
Why choose Dyslexia Sparks for an assessment?
Our specialist team is highly experienced in the field of dyslexia and has a good understanding of other SpLDs such as ASD and ADHD, so knows how to support your child during the assessment.
Each of our assessors has completed the Level 7 training qualification required or higher to offer a formal and recognised diagnosis of dyslexia. This is supported by an Assessment Practicing Certificate [APC] approved by SASC.
We provide ongoing support for your child and you â this begins when you first make contact and continues for as long as you need it â we go above and beyond to ensure we do everything we can to help.
How is an assessment different to a screener?
A dyslexia screener provides an initial indication of potential difficulties, flagging possible signs of dyslexia to suggest that further investigation is needed. In contrast, a dyslexia assessment is a formal, comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified professional that provides a diagnosis and a detailed cognitive profile, including specific recommendations for support.
When will I get the results of the assessment?
All assessments include a verbal feedback session (up to 30 minutes) which normally takes place via phone call up to one week from the date of the assessment. Written reports take around 6 weeks from the date of the assessment to be sent out.
Can I come in with my child?
We find itâs easier to concentrate and results are more accurate if parents wait outside. We welcome all parents into the assessment initially to introduce ourselves and help put nervous children at ease. We will then call you back in towards the end.
How long will the assessment take?
Childrenâs assessments usually take 2-2.5 hours.
Extended written (14-18yrs) and adult assessments are estimated between 3-4 hours.
Can I get support with the cost?
As a charity we offer bursary funding for eligible households within Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire. Find out more here.
Can you send the report on to a school or employer?
For GDPR reasons we send the report (which is a password protected PDF) directly to the individual who booked the assessment.
- Privately funded assessments: we send the report to the individual who booked the assessment. We cannot forward it on to a school, organisation or employer, however recommend you send to the school’s SENCO, or employer.
- School funded assessments: we send the report to the school and the parent of the child assessed.
- Organisation funded assessment: we send the report the organisation and the individual who has been assessment.
What happens after I get the report?
We recommend you schedule a meeting with your childâs school or employer to discuss the assessment findings and agree next steps, such as accommodations in the classroom, or intervention support. We also have a range of ongoing support available to access, such as our monthly support webinars.
”A dyslexia diagnosis is not an end but a beginning. This powerful insight opens the door to a way of learning that is better suited to them â and helps dyslexic individuals achieve their full potential.
Jane Craig, Founding Director and Assessor
Our Dyslexia Assessments Process
1. Make an Enquiry
Contact us to start the assessment process and we’ll talk you through your options. We have a waiting list for children’s assessments, and we’ll be in touch when appointments are released.
2. Book Your Assessment
If you weâre unable to book when enquiring, we will be in touch when appointments are released. We will send our assessment questionnaire and T&Câs via email for you to complete.
3. Assessment Day
Our team will contact you a week prior to your appointment to remind you of your selected time. Questionnaires need to be sent back to us at least a week prior to the assessment to review.
4. Your Report
Reports are sent out via email within 6 weeks of your assessment. Some may be sent quicker, these include adult assessments, and are usually within 3 weeks. School holidays make impact delivery times.