Liz Suddell

Those seeking an assessment will usually need advice initially to make sure that they get the right service to meet their needs. I happily provide this advice free of charge over the telephone or by email, so that any questions you have can be answered. 

 I am able to provide assessments for exam concessions, compliant with the Joint Council for Qualifications Regulations (JCQ). Exam Concessions Assessments usually take up to an hour to complete, and look to provide support concessions in examinations to meet the needs of students with disabilities or learning differences. I am happy to offer appointments for individuals or half/full days for schools or colleges. 

A screening assessment takes around 1.5 hours to compete, and provides a profile of attainment (eg, reading, spelling and reading comprehension), and processing skills (such as working memory). You will be given some questionnaires to complete and return in advance of your assessment - the purpose of these is to gather information about your background and history.  This type of assessment can not provide a diagnosis, but will give an indication of areas of strength and difficulty, as well as comprehensive support recommendations which are tailored to the individual's need and current situation. 

 Those who have a screening assessment initially will be able to have a diagnostic assessment at a reduced rate. 

A diagnostic assessment will take up to four hours to complete. It will include assessments of underlying ability, reading, spelling, reading comprehension, writing, memory, visual processing speed and phonological processing skills. You will be given some questionnaires to complete and return in advance of your assessment - the purpose of these is to gather information about your background and history. Regular breaks can be taken throughout the assessment process, as needed. Some indication of the results of your assessment can usually be given on the day.

You will be provided with an electronic copy of your diagnostic assessment report, usually within 10 working days. The report will detail any diagnosis (if applicable), and will include detailed information about the results of each test administered, conclusions and support recommendations. 

This report can be used throughout your life to request/access support and reasonable adjustments, both in education and the workplace. If you're studying at University, it can be used to make an application for Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), providing a diagnosis has been given.

A shorter screening assessment can be provided initially if you would like a bit more information before deciding whether or not to go for a full diagnostic assessment.