Getting Dyslexia Assessed

[SiouxsieSiouxStiletto]

Community Paediatrics said verbally that school should do it as they think DD might be Dyslexic. School have very helpfully said that "it's not something we do within the school, that is something you would need to pursue privately".

So what do we do? Can anyone talk me through the process?

If we do get someone to do it privately, does it have to be in person and how do we know that they are any good?

I'm not sure if it is Dyslexia or a processing issue.

Most schools don’t test for dyslexia as a full diagnostic assessment can take upwards of 3 hours and the (very expensive) tests have to be carried out by a suitably qualified assessor. Some schools will screen though so that you know whether paying out for a full test is worth it.
Where abouts in the country are you? Some offer remote assessments via Zoom or similar. I prefer to carry out assessments face to face though.
You need to look for an assessor with an assessment practicing certificate (APC) and membership to a professional body such as Paris’s or the Dyslexia Guild. They also should have insurance and a current DBS.
Tests cost anything for £300-£600.
You will be provided with a lengthy report which will detail your child’s areas of strength and need and will give detailed recommendations for school and home.
A student going to university can apply for Disabled Student Allowance with a diagnostic report.
Such a long post - sorry!!

Don't apologise, that's so very helpful. Thank you. We're in Cheshire.

Ahh you Mrs a bit far away from me in Yorkshire. If you have a Google around most assessors have a website.

I offer a shorter screening assessment if parents are unsure, this can give an indication of whether it’s worth doing a full assessment and the cost of the screener is taken off the cost of the full assessment, maybe that would be a good option for you if you could find someone who does the same.
Good luck

You’re not you Mrs!!

I know what you meant, don't worry

Im on the app at the min, will face to try and work out how to message you

Also it’s Patoss not Paris’s from my first post!!

A full ed psych assessment may be better rather than ‘just’ a dyslexia assessment. You could look at Marina Gouzouli Allen, Paul Kelly or Leanne Short.

Also, if you are hoping to potentially use the report for extra time you should speak to the school too as there are rules about the process.

Extra time has already been granted, but thank you