• ​What is a dyslexia test?

​A dyslexia test is a diagnostic test that identifies whether or not a person has the condition of dyslexia. Dyslexia can impede reading and spelling, as well as writing and planning. The test is a verbal and written process only. The test report will state that your child either has the condition of dyslexia or that this cannot be confirmed at this time. 

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• Why is a dyslexia test useful? 

A test will identify your child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses in areas such as phonological memory and processing speed.

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It can be a very powerful tool to transform your child’s confidence and self-esteem, giving them a greater understanding of their strengths. ​It can help teachers understand why students find particular activities more difficult than others and establish which strategies to use to help children achieve their true potential. 

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Although Exam Access Arrangements are a school's responsibility, the test can also help inform a school which tests it may undertake to assess entitlements to adjustments for examinations. It can also support an application for Disability Students’ Allowance (DSA), financially supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students.

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• Why must a sight or hearing test be done before I can book a test for dyslexia? ​

Before a child can begin dyslexia testing, they must first have an up-to-date eye test to eliminate any possibility that ocular weaknesses are impairing reading and spelling. It is also advisable (but not mandatory) to ensure hearing is functional as conditions such as glue ear can impede reading development. 

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• What does the whole test include? 

IThe test includes gathering a background history taken from the results of questionnaires and discussions prior to testing, my professional observations and diagnostic results from the tests themselves. 

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You will receive a written report setting out the diagnosis that you can, should you wish, share with your child’s teachers and their SEND department. The report will map out test findings to an agreed definition of dyslexia set by the British Dyslexia Association (BDA). It will be written following the SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (or SASC) guidelines, with an analysis of the findings and recommendations for the school, student and parent.

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• How long does a test take?

The testing process itself will take about 3-4 hours, with breaks in between. The testing pace will depend upon the student's focus and attention levels, as well as when cut-off points are met (see below). I use 2 tests: the TOD Comprehensive (Test of Dyslexia, 2024) and the DASH 2 (Detailed Assessment of the Speed of Handwriting, second edition 2024).

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• Where will the test take place?

The test will take place at my home in North Oxfordshire or, by arrangement, at your home. The test must be conducted in an uninterrupted and quiet space, in accordance with SASC guidelines.

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• How much does a dyslexia test cost?

I charge a fixed fee of £650 if a test is conducted at my home. This includes the whole testing process, from information gathering to final report.  Additional costs apply for a test conducted elsewhere. VAT is not chargeable.  This includes the time needed to collate background information, perform the tests, analyse the results and write the comprehensive report, with full recommendations. 

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• Is the report confidential?

All data handled in the testing process will be kept confidential. Following data protection laws, you decide what happens to your or your child’s data after completing the testing process. The final report will be sent to you by email, password-protected. It is entirely your choice what happens to the report then.

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• Will the process be upsetting for my child?

I make the testing process as positive as possible. Many students find the subtests interesting and stimulating, especially the visual tests. Tests have cut off or ‘ceiling’ points so that if the student is struggling, the test will end.  All the required tests must be undertaken to conclusion or cut-off point in order to meet SASC requirements, so this can be tiring. In my experience, students approach the testing process calmly as they are used to doing tests at school. It is advisable to pack a few favourite snacks to keep energy levels high!

 

• ​What age can you do a test at?

​You can test your child from the age of 6. 

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• Are you qualified to do this?

Yes, I am. I hold a BA, MA, PGCE, PG Cert In Teaching Children with Learning Difficulties (Distinction) and AMBDA (Distinction). ​As an Associated Member of the British Dyslexia Association, (AMBDA) I can assess dyslexia. I also hold an Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) issued by the BDA.  I am approved by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) to formally assess and make recommendations for exam access arrangements.

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• What happens after the test?

I can help you and your child explore how to implement strategies at school and home or provide extra support through one-on-one tuition. 

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• What if my child does not have dyslexia?

If, after testing, your child is found not to have dyslexia, the report can still be very beneficial as it will recommend strategies for enhancing your child’s individual skill set and identify further areas for exploration.