Minor dyslexia

[betti33]

My son, who is in Year 5, has a private diagnosis of mild dyslexia, but it’s not considered significant enough to qualify for extra time in the 11+ exam. He will be sitting the 11+ for private schools next year, and I’m quite worried that he may be at a disadvantage due to his difficulties with spelling and comprehension.

I’m unsure where to start—should I mention his diagnosis in the school applications, even though he doesn’t qualify for extra time? Would that make any difference?

I’d also really appreciate any advice on how to support him with his 11+ preparation. Has anyone had a similar experience?

For GCSE exams the exam adjustment kicks in when it is the student's normal way of working - what reasonable adjustments did the report highlight? These might be things to think about when working for GCSEs rather than 11+. TBH I haven't heard of adjustments for 11+ assessments, although I do know that some children have had dyslexia pointed out by schools when sitting 7+ exam.

How long do you have before the exams/applications and are you targeting grammar or private schools?

Lots of independent schools require you to disclose any SEN. If you don’t and they find out after they have offered a place, they may withdraw the place.

I would want to ask questions about support, anyway.

For GCSE, with dyslexia, it isn’t just based on normal way of working. For applications under the learning difficulties criteria (which those with dyslexia without EHCPs would fall under), there are standardised scores criteria that need to be met. So it is possible to have a dyslexia diagnosis without having the necessary standardised scores.

This... on all counts.

Mild dyslexia may not get access arrangements like extra time, as it's score dependent.

Worth looking at the JCQ guidelines well in advance and discussing with SENCo at secondary.

You may find what looks mild at primary suddenly looks a lot more severe as GCSEs approach.