How much does a diagnostic assessment cost?

​

The full diagnostic dyslexia assessment costs £550. This includes the assessment session, scoring, analysis, and a detailed written report with personalised recommendations provided within 2 weeks (often sooner).

 

What happens during an assessment?

 

The assessment is a one-to-one session using a range of standardised tests. These explore areas such as reading, writing, memory, phonological awareness, and processing speed. The tests are age-appropriate and designed to help build a picture of how your child learns best.

 

How long does the assessment take?

 

Assessments take around 3-4 hours, including breaks. This ensures your child can work at their own pace in a calm and supportive environment.

 

Where will the assessment take place?

 

Assessments can be carried out in your home or in a school setting, depending on what’s most convenient and comfortable for the learner.

 

What should we expect on the day?

 

There’s no need for any preparation. The session is relaxed and informal, with plenty of time for breaks and reassurance. The goal is to help your child feel comfortable so they can do their best.

​

Why must an eye test be carried out before assessment?

​

A vision test in school is not sufficient to identify visual difficulties associated with visual stress. Visual difficulties can impact the way a learner tracks and interprets visual information. If an eye test has not been carried out before assessment then it will need to be rescheduled. If additional visual difficulties are suspected during the assessment, a full sight test by a specialist optometrist will be recommended. 

​

What happens after the assessment?

 

Following the assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive written report. This includes a summary of findings, whether a diagnosis of dyslexia has been made, and clear, tailored recommendations for home and school. A follow-up discussion can be arranged to go through the report and answer any questions.

​

Can a child under 8 be assessed?

​

Although early identification and intervention are considered the most effective approaches for supporting dyslexia, it's important to be cautious when deciding whether to assess a child under the age of 8. Current best practice recommends that children first receive a structured programme of intervention before exploring a formal diagnosis such as dyslexia. Since children develop literacy skills at different rates, a slower pace doesn’t always indicate dyslexia. I typically begin assessments no earlier than the end of Year 3, and only once there is evidence that targeted support has already been implemented to address any learning gaps. For younger children, it may be too early to determine definitively whether they have dyslexia. The primary goal of an assessment at this stage is to better understand the child’s individual learning profile and to offer tailored strategies for support and intervention.

​

Will other needs to be picked up?

​

With my extensive experience as both a teacher and an assessor, I am often able to identify signs of additional needs during the initial stages of the assessment process, including information gathered through background questionnaires and observations on the day. I frequently notice indicators of other areas of need, such as ADHD, speech and language difficulties, Autism, Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), sensory processing challenges, or visual discomfort. While I am not qualified to formally diagnose these conditions, I can provide guidance on how to seek further assessments or specialist advice if appropriate.

​

What if it isn't dyslexia?

​

A private assessment for dyslexia does not always result in a formal diagnosis. In some cases, the outcome may be a detailed understanding of the individual’s learning strengths and challenges without assigning a specific label. This information is still highly valuable, as it can lead to a deeper understanding of how to support the learner effectively. If necessary, I will also provide recommendations for referrals to other professionals who may be able to help.