Start with the pupil’s learning needs
A SENCo — special educational needs coordinator — helps coordinate support in school. When reading, spelling or handwriting remains difficult, a conversation between the pupil, family and school can help clarify what is happening and what support to try.
DTC can discuss diagnostic dyslexia assessments from age eight, handwriting difficulties assessments from age eight and other learning assessment routes. We explain suitability before booking.
What information helps an assessment enquiry?
- The pupil’s age and the main questions the family and school want answered.
- Examples of reading, spelling or handwriting difficulties.
- Strengths, interests and the pupil’s own experience of learning.
- Support or interventions already tried and what changed.
- Previous reports and any relevant access needs.
- What the school hopes to learn from the report.
We can discuss the assessment process, background information needed and arrangements for an online appointment.
Turning a report into a school conversation
A report brings together assessment findings and recommendations. Discuss which recommendations fit the pupil’s classroom tasks, who will help put them into practice and when to review them. Our aftercare can help families understand the findings and plan questions for school.
Screening, diagnosis and exam arrangements
Free screeners provide a starting point for questions; they do not diagnose a learning difference. A diagnostic report and an exam access arrangements assessment also serve different purposes.
For exam access arrangements, contact us to discuss suitability with the school or college before booking. The education provider manages its evidence requirements and approval process.
Parents: how to ask for help
Contact your child’s teacher or SENCo to discuss learning concerns and support. You can begin that conversation while considering whether an assessment would be useful.
Read the GOV.UK guide to SEN support in England. Education support systems differ across the UK; ask your school which process applies.
Discuss a school assessment enquiry
Tell us the pupil’s age, the learning concerns and the questions you want an assessment to answer.
Dyslexia testing for children
Handwriting difficulties assessments
Back-to-school support checklist
Specialist support for schools, trusts and LEAs
Explore DTC’s specialist learning and SEND support for schools and local education authorities (LEAs), including cognitive and learning profiles, learner consultations, staff coaching and commissioned partnerships.
Tell us the pupil’s age and the learning questions you want to explore.
Contact DTC about school support