slow processing speed - advice

[whatdoesthisallmean]

I've been advised that my autistic DS13 may have a slow processing speed and it should be monitored. I've never heard of this and my searching on google hasn't got me that far - though what i have found seems to fit very much with how finds things. How is it diagnosed? And can this lead to extra time being granted in exams etc?
I want to talk to the school about it, but would like to know a bit more about it so I can make sure I know what I can/should be asking for.

An educational psychologist can assess for slow processing speed. Exam access arrangements such as extra time may be possible, but aren’t guaranteed.

Thanks for this @Thatsnotmycar . Is this something I should expect the school to do for me or do I have to go private?

An EP assessment can be via school, however schools’ EP hours are extremely limited and unless the issues are very serve they aren’t going to use them on DD. That’s sounds harsh but sadly it’s the truth.

If you feel DD’s needs can’t &/or aren’t being met at a school level you can apply for an EHCNA, which if the LA agree to assess includes an EP assessment.

You can look at an independent assessment but they also have long waits at the moments, too.

Thanks @Thatsnotmycar all three options sound pretty daunting - I doubt the school will be concerned enough compared to other more severe cases. I don't know if it'd be considered serious enough for a ehcp and I've heard these are hard to get. But going private sounds challenging too - and of course there is the £s involved. 😭

My dd has slow processing. Depending on the qualifications of staff at school, they may be able to run screening tests to check the basics. This can then be used to apply for extra time in exams if it is needed.