Dyslexia Assessment Services in Dorset
Supporting learners with tailored educational assessments. A specialist teacher in dyslexia can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure that each student's unique learning needs are met.
WHAT IS DYSLEXIA?
The UK employs the Delphi definition of dyslexia, which is grounded in research and expert consensus. This definition indicates that dyslexia is influenced by a mix of genetic and environmental factors, occurring along a continuum that means it can affect individuals to varying degrees. It is characterised by a range of processing difficulties, most commonly related to phonological processing, but can also involve working memory, processing speed, and orthographic knowledge. These differences can significantly impact literacy aspects, particularly reading fluency and spelling.
SPECIALIST DYSLEXIA ASSESSMENTS
Dorset Dyslexia Diagnosis offers comprehensive specialist dyslexia assessments tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. As an initial step, dyslexia screening assessments are available to help determine if a full diagnostic assessment is necessary. A full diagnostic assessment provides a detailed understanding of a learner's profile, their individual strengths and areas of difficulty. This leads to a clear diagnostic outcome and practical, personalised recommendations to support learning, build confidence, and enable every learner to reach their full potential.
ABOUT ME
I am a Specialist Teacher for Literacy-Related Difficulties with a passion for helping children overcome barriers to learning and develop the confidence and skills they need to thrive. My interest in dyslexia grew from personal experience following my daughter’s diagnosis, which inspired me to train as an assessor, where I can support other children and families facing similar challenges.
I hold the British Psychological Society Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing (CCET) and a Postgraduate Certificate in SEND and Inclusion: Dyslexia Specialist Assessment. These qualifications provide the specialist training required to conduct comprehensive diagnostic dyslexia assessments, helping individuals gain a deeper understanding of their learning profile, strengths and areas of difficulty.
Alongside my assessment work, I continue to teach in a local primary school, where I support children with literacy difficulties and work closely with staff to promote inclusive practice. I also deliver staff training, parent workshops, and dyslexia awareness initiatives.
I have also had the opportunity to contribute to wider awareness of dyslexia by advising author Susie Tate on the portrayal of a dyslexic character in her novel Law Maker. This involved providing feedback to help ensure that the character's experiences reflected a realistic and authentic understanding of dyslexia.
With over twenty years of primary teaching experience, I bring a deep understanding of literacy development, child development, and effective intervention. My aim is to ensure that every child feels understood, recognised for their strengths, and equipped with the support they need to achieve their full potential.
QUALIFICATIONS
Jennifer Walker BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip SpLD, CCET, PG Cert SEND & Inclusion, MDG
I hold a BA (Hons) in Education and Music from Cardiff University, a PGCE from Cambridge University and a Level 5 Diploma in Specialist Teaching for Literacy-Related Difficulties through Dyslexia Action. Additionally, I possess a Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing (CCET) as a Test User, and am registered with the British Psychological Society. I also have a Post Graduate Certificate in SEND and Inclusion, specialising in Dyslexia Assessments (Level 7). As a member of the Dyslexia Guild (MDG), I am qualified to perform dyslexia assessments and hold an Assessment Practising Certificate (APC).
WHAT TO EXPECT
Before the dyslexia assessment can take place, a set of questionnaires will be provided to gather important background information about your child’s development, learning experiences, and current areas of concern. A separate questionnaire will also be sent to your child’s school to gain valuable insight into their progress and learning in the classroom.
Where appropriate, a short consultation may be arranged to explore relevant background information in greater detail. This information, together with the assessment results, helps to build a comprehensive understanding of your child’s strengths and areas of difficulty, ensuring that any diagnostic decision is accurate, evidence-based, and tailored to their individual needs.
THE ASSESSMENT
On the day of the assessment, a range of standardised tests will be completed in a relaxed and supportive environment, either at your home or your child's school, depending on your preference. Regular breaks can be taken whenever needed to ensure the assessment proceeds at a comfortable pace and that your child feels at ease throughout. Assessments typically last between two and three hours, although the exact duration will vary depending on the individual's age, needs and pace of working.
AFTER THE ASSESSMENT
A few days after the assessment, a telephone consultation will be arranged to discuss the findings and answer any questions. A full diagnostic report, including detailed recommendations will then be provided within approximately two weeks.
DISABLED STUDENTS' ALLOWANCE
As the assessment is conducted by a specialist teacher assessor holding an Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) through the Dyslexia Guild, these dyslexia assessments are completed in accordance with current SASC guidelines. For students of any age, these educational assessments can be used as evidence when applying for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) in further or higher education.
SERVICES
£650 - Full Diagnostic Dyslexia Assessment - This thorough diagnostic assessment is conducted in line with current SASC guidelines and includes essential components such as assessment administration, results analysis, a detailed diagnostic report, and personalised recommendations for home, school, and additional support. The report can also serve as evidence for applications for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), when applicable.
£195 - Dyslexia Screener - If you are unsure whether a full diagnostic assessment is needed, the Tests of Dyslexia (TOD) Screener provides an excellent first step. This standardised screening assessment helps identify whether an individual may be at risk of dyslexia, with results categorised as 'at risk', 'possible risk', or 'no to low risk'. The fee covers the administration of the screener, scoring, interpretation of results and a written summary report.
If a full diagnostic assessment is scheduled within three months of completing the dyslexia screener, the £195 fee will be deducted from the cost of the assessment.
TESTIMONIALS
"Despite feeling a little nervous about the screening, my daughter was put at ease by Jenny. She was professional, kind, and friendly, which helped my daughter feel comfortable throughout the process.
After my daughter's screening, the outcome indicated that a full dyslexia assessment is recommended. We will definitely be asking Jenny to carry out this assessment, as we were really impressed with the support and care she provided."
S. Dalby - Bournemouth
"My daughter was a reluctant reader. Reading sounded like hard work and she would often misread words, swapping letters around. She had some issues with spellings in her written work, too. I decided to see Jenny and I'm so pleased I did. She suggested an initial assessment. She was very professional, patient and made my daughter feel comfortable and at ease. She went through a detailed assessment, my daughter scored at 'low risk' and Jenny suggested we explored other barriers elsewhere. With Jenny's expertise and help, my daughter is now a happier reader."
Agi - Bournemouth
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