Assessments / Advice & next steps
Dyslexia assessment explained
It is understandable to seek clarity if your child is struggling with reading or writing. Remember, dyslexia is a difference in the way the brain processes language, and it can be effectively supported with the right teaching approaches.
Quick answer
A dyslexia assessment explores a pattern of literacy-related strengths and difficulties, often including reading, spelling, phonological processing, memory and processing speed. It should explain the evidence, limitations and practical support. School should respond to literacy needs before a formal diagnosis.
What this means
Dyslexia is not identified from one score or online checklist. The assessor should consider teaching history, attendance, language, hearing or vision concerns and the child’s wider learning profile. Ask which definition and assessment standards are used and whether the report is diagnostic or a screening summary.
A diagnosis of dyslexia is a tool, but the most important outcome is the implementation of teaching adjustments, such as coloured overlays, audiobooks, or more time for processing.
Do not wait for a formal assessment to ask for literacy support. If your child is struggling, the school should already be providing targeted interventions. The assessment should support what the school is doing, not replace it.
Questions to ask
Is this screening or a full diagnostic assessment? • What teaching and background evidence will be considered? • How will recommendations be used and reviewed?
Local Northamptonshire route
Begin with the school SENCO and current literacy support. Use the relevant North Northamptonshire or West Northamptonshire Local Offer and SENDIASS service for education guidance. Private assessment is optional.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Choose an appropriately qualified assessor and verify credentials. A diagnosis may inform support but does not guarantee an EHCP, exam arrangements or a specific intervention.
What happens next?
Discuss findings with school and translate recommendations into specific teaching and adjustments. Review progress rather than treating the report as the final step.
Support that may help
School SENCO, Specialist Literacy Teacher, Educational Psychologist.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.