Why have an assessment?
A dyslexia assessment provides a deeper understanding of an individual's strengths and weaknesses in order to help them achieve their full potential. It can help explain any difficulties the individual is experiencing in school, university or the workplace. A full diagnostic assessment is the only way that dyslexia can be formally identified.
Some common reasons for Diagnostic Assessment include:
To provide recommendations for ways to support children in school and at home.
To use as evidence for Exam Access Arrangements whilst studying at school, college, university or for professional qualifications (please see section on Access Arrangements).
To apply for funded support at university known as Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) https://www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowance-dsa.
To provide more information for employers so that they can make Reasonable Adjustments for an employee with specific difficulties.
For an individual to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their strengths and areas for development.
People often feel nervous about dyslexia assessments because the process can be a bit daunting. There’s usually concern about the outcome, especially if they’re unsure what to expect or if they’ve experienced challenges in school or work related to learning difficulties. Some may also fear that it could lead to a label that feels limiting, or they might be worried about how the assessment could reflect on their abilities or intelligence.
However, there’s no need to be nervous about dyslexia assessments. These assessments are designed to help people understand their unique learning profile and identify strengths and areas for support. They can provide clarity and insight into how the individual processes information, which can be incredibly empowering. The goal is to create a tailored support plan that helps a person thrive, whether in school, work, or daily life.
Ultimately, a dyslexia assessment can be a valuable tool for self-understanding and growth, giving individuals the resources they need to succeed and often leading to better strategies for learning and problem-solving.