Your journey through a dyslexia assessment

At Dyslexia Support, our assessments are designed to build a detailed picture of how an individual learns. Rather than relying on a single test score, we combine information from a range of sources to identify strengths, understand areas of difficulty, and explore how these impact learning.

  • We gather information from parents, carers, teachers and the individual through questionnaires, discussions and a review of relevant background information. This helps us understand educational history, family history, strengths, interests and any areas of concern.
  • Where possible, we also observe the individual in a learning environment to see how they approach tasks, use strategies and manage literacy demands in everyday situations.
  • The assessment includes a range of standardised tests that look at reading, spelling, writing, memory, processing speed, phonological processing and other skills linked to literacy development.
  • All assessment results are considered alongside observations and background information to create a complete understanding of the individual. This holistic approach reflects current best practice in dyslexia assessment.

A detailed report is then produced, explaining:

  • The individual's strengths and areas of need.
  • What the assessment results mean in everyday learning.
  • Whether the profile is consistent with the Delphi Definition of Dyslexia (2025).
  • Practical recommendations for home, school, further education and examinations where appropriate.

 The aim is not simply to identify difficulties, but to provide answers, build confidence and offer a clear pathway for future success.

 

 

 

Understanding our dyslexia assessment process

Embark on a clear and supportive journey with Dyslexia Support. Discover how our comprehensive assessments identify unique learning profiles and pave the way for tailored strategies and greater understanding.

The benefits of a Dyslexia Assessment.

A dyslexia assessment helps you understand how you learn best, identifying both strengths and any difficulties that may be affecting reading, spelling, writing or learning. More than just a diagnosis, it provides answers, clarity and a clear plan for moving forward.

A dyslexia assessment can:

  • Identify strengths as well as areas of difficulty.
  • Explain why learning may feel more challenging.
  • Help parents, schools and learners better understand how the individual learns.
  • Build confidence and self-esteem by recognising that difficulties are not linked to intelligence or effort.
  • Provide tailored recommendations for home, school and future education.
  • Inform appropriate support, interventions and classroom adjustments.
  • Support applications for access arrangements where appropriate.
  • Help learners develop strategies, independence and self-advocacy skills.

The assessment combines information from parents, teachers and the learner, alongside observations and diagnostic assessments, to create a complete picture of the individual's learning profile.

Following the assessment, a detailed report explains the findings in clear, accessible language and provides practical recommendations to support progress, confidence and long-term success.

Ultimately, a dyslexia assessment is about understanding the whole person, recognising their potential, and providing a pathway for them to thrive.

 

 

Addressing your concerns about assessments

Many children, young people and adults feel anxious before an assessment, and parents often have questions about what to expect. A key part of the process is ensuring that everyone feels informed, comfortable and reassured throughout.

"Will it feel like an exam?"

No. A dyslexia assessment is designed to be supportive and engaging, not a test that can be passed or failed. The activities are carefully selected to explore how an individual learns and processes information, helping to identify both strengths and areas of need.

"What if the assessment doesn't identify dyslexia?"

Regardless of the outcome, the assessment provides valuable information about the individual's learning profile. It helps explain strengths, highlights any barriers to learning, and provides practical recommendations to support future progress.

"Will my child find it stressful?"

Assessments are carried out in a relaxed, supportive environment with regular breaks if needed. Many children and young people actually enjoy the process.

After the assessment: understanding the results and next steps

Following the assessment, all of the information gathered is carefully reviewed and analysed. This includes information from parents, teachers and the individual, background questionnaires, observations, and the results from any standardised assessments. These different sources of information are combined to create a detailed and meaningful picture of the individual's strengths, areas of need, and learning profile.

A comprehensive report is then produced. The report explains:

  • The assessments completed and what each assessment measures.
  • The individual's strengths and areas of difficulty.
  • How the findings may present in everyday learning and educational settings.
  • Whether the profile is consistent with dyslexia, mapped against the Delphi Definition of Dyslexia (2025).
  • Practical recommendations tailored to the individual's needs.

Sharing and explaining the results

Receiving a report can sometimes feel overwhelming, so results are discussed in a clear, accessible and supportive way. Time is allocated for a detailed discussion to ensure all findings are understood, and any questions are answered, helping to plan the most effective next steps.