

The screener assessment comprises of nine short tests which provide a detailed profile of a child's literacy, processing and memory skills. Background information for a screener is initially collected from the parents prior to the assessment date. The screener lasts approximately one hour and looks for indicators or difficulty in the core areas impacted by dyslexia: single-word reading and spelling, phonological awareness, phonological processing and phonological memory.
A screening is designed to determine if a child shows dyslexic tendencies. This will result in a detailed report which provides a profile of your child's strengths and weaknesses, helping to identify particular areas of difficulty in literacy learning and enabling their teachers to provide targeted support. Although this is a good starting point, it is not a full diagnostic assessment and cannot be used for an application for Disabled Student Allowance.
A short confidential report with the results and key recommendations for support will be completed and emailed within two weeks. Following the report, I offer a 20-minute follow-up meeting via Zoom, where you can ask any questions about the report.
A full diagnostic Dyslexia assessment begins with gathering a range of background information about your child. I will send you questionnaires for both home and school so that I can begin to get to know your child, their strengths and the areas that they may be struggling with.
The assessment comprises of a range of activities and tasks that assess underlying cognitive ability, working memory, speed of processing and phonological awareness plus attainment in spelling, writing, reading and, if appropriate, numeracy. These take around four hours in total but can be split over two sessions to aid concentration and for younger children. The tests are varied and carried out in a way that keeps them engaged and motivated throughout.
Following the assessment, a detailed report is written and shared within three weeks. This report will follow the SASC guidelines and will include diagnostic decisions. It will explain your child's strengths, weaknesses and include personalised recommendations for them at home and at school.
Following the report, I offer a 30-minute follow-up meeting via Zoom, where you can ask any questions about the report.
In line with SASC guidelines, it is recommended that a full diagnostic assessment is suitable for children from the age of 8 years and upwards. Please contact me if you wish to discuss which assessment is appropriate for your child.

A Dyslexia assessment involves a series of short tests. These measure spelling, writing, reading, and numeracy skills, along with memory, processing speed, and phonological awareness. Assessments usually last between 2 1/2- 3 hours. Some children may like to split this over two sessions. These are carried in a relaxed manner, working at the child's pace to ensure they feel at ease throughout.

A Diagnostic Assessment is intended to confirm whether an individual has dyslexia or not. It provides a confirmed diagnosis of dyslexia, as well as a clearer picture of the person’s strengths and weaknesses and their individual cognitive profile.
In addition it gives you and your child a better understanding of how they can learn most effectively and where their strengths and challenges lie.

The assessment process begins with collecting detailed background information regarding your child’s early language and literacy development. Your child’s school will be sent a questionnaire about your child’s educational history, progress, attainment and any already identified need. You will also be sent a parent questionnaire regarding your child's development and family history.

A decision as to whether or not a diagnosis of dyslexia is appropriate will be made based on the results of the assessment. A detailed report outlining the findings and suggesting suitable learning support strategies is prepared.
A password protected digital copy will be sent to you within 14 days of the date of the assessment. The report will explain your child’s assessment profile in terms of areas of strength and areas of need as well as personalised recommendation to support your child’s educational development.
Where appropriate, it will also make suggestions for onward referrals to other professionals.
On receiving the report, a follow-up meeting can be arranged if needed.

Assessments take place in Unlocking-Dyslexia's studio office. The studio has been purpose built as a light and airy room to help children feel calm and relaxed. There is a bathroom on site. Children are welcome to move around during the assessment or choose from a range of seating suitable for them. Parents and guardians are welcome to stay throughout the assessment or leave and return depending of the wishes of the child.

You can arrange an initial phone conversation to help you understand if the diagnostic assessment may be right for your child.
It is recommended that you discuss your intentions with your child's school teacher and/or SENCo as they will be able to advise if they feel a formal assessment is suitable for your child.
Full assessments to diagnose dyslexia are offered from the age of 8 upwards. Diagnosing dyslexia before this age can be challenging and it is recommended that interventions are put in place first.
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Claire Gibbons trading as Unlocking Dyslexia