
What Happens in a Dyslexia Assessment?
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Many parents, students and adults ask what happens in a dyslexia assessment and what the process involves. Understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and make it easier to decide whether an assessment may be helpful.
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Before the Assessment
A professional dyslexia assessment explores how a person processes written language and information. It identifies both strengths and areas of difficulty and determines whether dyslexia is present.
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At Lexety Education, assessments are carried out by a specialist teacher holding an Assessment Practising Certificate (APC).
Before an assessment takes place, you will complete a background questionnaire. This gathers information about:
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educational history
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current concerns
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challenges with reading, spelling and writing
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previous support or interventions
For children, parents may also be asked to provide information about school progress.
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This helps ensure the assessment focuses on the most relevant areas.
During the Assessment
​A dyslexia assessment typically takes around three hours.
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The assessment involves a range of standardised tests designed to explore how an individual learns and processes information.
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These may include tests of:
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Reading skills - Assessing reading accuracy, fluency and comprehension.
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Spelling ability - Exploring spelling patterns and written language skills.
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Phonological processing - Looking at how a person recognises and works with the sounds in words.
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Working memory - Examining the ability to hold and manipulate information in the mind.
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Processing speed - Understanding how quickly information can be processed.
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Writing skills - Assessing written expression and organisation.
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The assessment is carried out in a calm and supportive environment and is designed to feel comfortable rather than like a school test.
After the Assessment
After the assessment, the results are carefully analysed.
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You will receive a detailed written report, which typically includes:
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a summary of the assessment results
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identification of strengths and areas of difficulty
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confirmation of whether dyslexia is present
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practical recommendations for support
These recommendations may be helpful for:
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schools
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universities
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workplaces
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personal learning strategies
How Long Does It Take to Receive the Report?
Reports are usually completed within a few weeks of the assessment.
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The report provides a clear explanation of the results and practical guidance for moving forward.
Who Can Have a Dyslexia Assessment?
Assessments are available for:
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children
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secondary school students
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university students
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adults
Signs of dyslexia in children can differ from signs of dysleixa in adults. Therefore, many adults choose to seek an assessment later in life. Often they are looking to better understand their learning profile or access support.
Dyslexia Assessments in Cornwall
Lexety Education provides professional dyslexia assessments in Cornwall, based in Truro and supporting individuals across the county.
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Assessments provide clarity about learning differences and help identify practical strategies for education, work and everyday life.
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If you would like to learn more about the assessment process, you can book a free discovery call to discuss your questions.
