Dyslexia Assessments for Children & Young People
Full diagnostic assessments and support to help parents enable their children to reach their potential. We test from age 8/9 and offer honest, expert guidance.
What should I do if I suspect dyslexia?
Although the best age to diagnose dyslexia is around 7 years, the signs can be noticeable much earlier. Consider these questions:
Important: Check hearing and eyesight first. Ask your child if the print moves around on the page. If it does, have their eyes checked by an optometrist rather than a high-street optician. A history of ear infections or grommets can also affect hearing pure letter sounds.
For 16 - 18 year olds
Many 16 – 18 learners have developed coping strategies to hide their dyslexia. They may have additional difficulties with organisation, reading and writing at speed, poor spelling, and low self-confidence.
If you are about to go to university, you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). A full diagnostic assessment can lead to funding for a laptop and extra resources.
Tip: Check first whether your university can provide the assessment. It is often cheaper. Go to their Disability Services and check.
DSA Support
Disabled Students' Allowance can fund a laptop and software.
Extra Time
A post-16 report is needed even if you had extra time in GCSEs or Access Arrangements.
Assistive Technology
Access to Work can fund software and coaching for dyslexic adults in the workplace.
What happens in an assessment?
Pre-assessment questionnaire
A questionnaire is sent asking about your child's specific difficulties, speech and language, maths, and National Curriculum levels. A school questionnaire is also provided for children.
The assessment (approx. 3 hours)
A range of tests covering cognitive ability, attainment (reading, spelling, comprehension) and diagnostic tests (memory, phonological awareness). Breaks are always given.
Feedback and report
The assessor will give feedback at the end of the session. A detailed written report is returned within 15 working days.
Follow-up and recommendations
A follow-up session is always offered, in person, by phone or on Zoom. Recommendations for school support and resources are included.
What to bring
Bring with you
Good to know
Services for dyslexia at school
INSET Training
Twilight INSET or half-day sessions from £250 + VAT. Full day from £650 + VAT. Online or in person, no minimum numbers.
Group Screenings
Group dyslexia screenings to identify children who may benefit from further assessment. Quick and cost-effective.
Exam Access Arrangements
Testing for Access Arrangements (extra time, reader, scribe) by current APC holders. Reports accepted for DSA applications.
Children's assessment prices
Carried out by L7 /APC holder with a full report
Discount available for children in receipt of free school meals.
£100 + VAT deposit to Positive Dyslexia; associate invoices the £450 balance directly, plus travel. Associates hold current APCs & full DBS. Dyscalculia assessments may incur an additional fee and are always face to face.
From £295, up to £395 depending on length and format. Online or in person, no minimum or maximum numbers. Travel extra.
Minimum six students. Group testing first, then one to one.
Common questions
What age do you test from?
We normally test from age 8/9, when standardised tests become reliable. However, we can advise on younger children and suggest appropriate next steps.
Does my child need to be referred by a school?
No, parents can refer directly. You do not need a referral from a school or GP to book an assessment with us.
Can the assessment be done online?
Yes, we offer online assessments via Zoom. In-person assessments are also available across England and Wales.
How long does the assessment take?
A full assessment typically takes around 3 hours with breaks throughout. We always ensure children are comfortable and given the time they need.