Assessment
How does it work?
DunEdin Dyslexia provides specialist assessments for adults (16+) who would like to explore whether Dyslexia, Dyspraxia/DCD and/or ADHD-related difficulties may be affecting their learning, studies or everyday life.
Many adults seek an assessment because they have always felt they learn differently from others or are experiencing challenges that may be affecting their studies, work or everyday life.
You may wish to consider an assessment if you:
✓ Experience difficulties with reading, writing, spelling or organisation
✓ Find it difficult to retain information, maintain concentration or manage competing demands
✓ Have always felt that learning takes more effort than it seems to for others
✓ Are studying at college or university and finding the academic demands challenging
✓ Are seeking a better understanding of your strengths and areas of difficulty
✓ Would like to access support through Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), your college, university or workplace
✓ Suspect that Dyslexia, Dyspraxia/DCD and/or ADHD-related difficulties may be contributing to some of the challenges you experience
An assessment can provide a detailed understanding of your learning profile, helping to identify both strengths and areas where additional support or adjustments may be beneficial.
Available Assessments
✓ Dyslexia Assessment
✓ Dyslexia Assessment with ADHD and/or Dyspraxia Screening
✓ Dyslexia Assessment with Identification of Dyspraxia/DCD (16+)
✓ Dyslexia Assessment with Educational Indicators of ADHD (18+)
✓ Combined Assessment (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia/DCD and Educational Indicators of ADHD)
All assessments include a comprehensive diagnostic report with practical recommendations to support your studies, work and future goals.
A diagnostic assessment can help you:
✓ Better understand your learning profile
✓ Access Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) or Access to work
✓ Access reasonable adjustments and support
✓ Develop effective study and workplace strategies
✓ Build confidence in your strengths and areas for development
Initial Consultation (Free)
The process begins with a complimentary consultation. This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions about the assessment process and determine which assessment option may be most appropriate for your needs.
Appointments are usually conducted by telephone or video call (Teams) and last approximately 20 minutes.
There is no obligation to proceed with an assessment following this discussion.
Screening (Optional)
If you are unsure whether a full diagnostic assessment is appropriate, a screening appointment can be arranged.
Screening involves the use of questionnaires, checklists and screening tools to identify indicators commonly associated with Dyslexia, Dyspraxia/DCD (16+) and ADHD (18+).
Whilst screening does not provide a diagnosis, it can help determine whether a full diagnostic assessment may be beneficial.
Screening appointments typically last around 60 minutes and a consultation fee applies.
Full Diagnostic Assessment
If you decide to proceed, a full diagnostic assessment will be arranged at a mutually convenient time.
Prior to your appointment, you will be asked to complete a background questionnaire. This provides valuable information about your educational history, current concerns and experiences, allowing the assessment to be tailored to your individual circumstances. Assessments are conducted remotely via Teams/Zoom and typically last between 2 and 3 hours. Where appropriate, appointments can be divided into two shorter sessions.
Depending on the assessment selected, areas explored may include literacy skills associated with Dyslexia, indicators associated with Dyspraxia/DCD, attention and executive functioning skills commonly associated with ADHD, as well as areas of cognitive strength and difficulty that may impact learning and performance.
The assessment is designed to provide a detailed understanding of your learning profile and identify any barriers that may be affecting your studies, work or day-to-day activities.
Your Diagnostic Report
Following the assessment, you will receive a comprehensive diagnostic report, usually within 10 working days.
Reports are typically between 20 and 30 pages long and include:
• Assessment findings and outcomes
• Any diagnosis or identification reached (where applicable)
• Areas of strength and difficulty
• Consideration of any co-occurring difficulties
• Recommendations for study, learning and workplace strategies
• Recommended reasonable adjustments and support
• Information about relevant resources and next steps
A diagnostic report can be used as supporting evidence when applying for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), which may provide access to specialist study skills support, assistive technology and other funded assistance.
You will be sent a draft copy of the report before the final version is released. This allows you to review the report and discuss any questions you may have about the findings and recommendations.
Quality Assurance
Assessments are carried out by an experienced and qualified Specialist Teacher Assessor who holds a current Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) with Patoss and is registered with the SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC). You can check if your assessor holds a current APC here (APC code: 500002935-OF8628).
You can be assured that assessments and reports are completed in accordance with current SASC guidance and recognised professional standards.
Post-Assessment Support (Optional)
Some individuals find it helpful to arrange a follow-up appointment after receiving their report.
These appointments provide an opportunity to discuss the findings in more detail and explore practical strategies, assistive technology, study skills and other recommendations contained within the report. Appointments can take place by telephone, Teams or in person, where available. Appointments typically last around 60 minutes, and a consultation fee applies.