Ashford Dyslexia Centre
Registered charity founded in 1989 providing specialist dyslexia support in the Ashford area. Offers diagnostic assessments by qualified Specialist Dyslexia Teachers and Assessors, alongside one-to-one tuition for learners of all ages.
Location: Ashford
Areas covered: Ashford, Mid Kent
Phone: 01233 427140
About Dyslexia Specialist Services
Dyslexia specialists are qualified teachers or assessors with advanced postgraduate training in identifying and supporting specific learning differences. Diagnostic assessors typically hold the Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) and AMBDA (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association), and produce SASC-compliant reports that are widely recognised by schools, exam boards, and universities.
A diagnostic dyslexia or dyscalculia assessment looks at reading, spelling, writing, mathematical reasoning, memory, processing speed, and underlying cognitive abilities. Many specialists also assess for co-occurring difficulties such as Developmental Coordination Disorder, ADHD traits, and visual stress. Reports include detailed recommendations for school, exam access arrangements, and home support.
In addition to assessment, many dyslexia specialists offer specialist one-to-one tuition using structured, multi-sensory approaches. This kind of teaching is recommended in EHCPs for children with specific learning differences and can make a substantial difference to confidence and attainment alongside school-based support.
Areas Served
- Ashford
- Mid Kent
Specialisms
- dyslexia assessment -- SASC-compliant diagnostic assessment for dyslexia
- specialist tuition -- Structured, multi-sensory specialist tuition for SpLDs
- SpLD -- Assessment and support for Specific Learning Difficulties
Before Your First Appointment
To get the most from your initial consultation, here are some things to consider:
- Bring relevant documents -- gather any previous reports (e.g. from school, NHS, or other professionals), letters from your child's SENCO, and any diary notes you have kept about your child's development or behaviour.
- Know what to expect -- most first appointments involve an initial assessment or consultation. The professional will want to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you hope to achieve. A written report with recommendations typically follows.
- Prepare your child -- explain in age-appropriate terms that they are going to meet someone who will play with them or talk to them, and that this person is there to help. Reassure them that it is not a test they can fail.
- Questions to consider asking -- How long is the assessment process? What will the report include? How many sessions might be needed? Can you provide strategies for home and school? What are the costs and are there any funding options available?
Helpful Resources
These SENDPath guides may be useful as you explore your options:
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications should a diagnostic dyslexia assessor hold?
A diagnostic dyslexia assessor should hold the Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) and ideally AMBDA (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association) or equivalent. Reports should be SASC-compliant (SpLD Assessment Standards Committee) so they are accepted by schools, exam boards, universities and the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).
Will a dyslexia diagnosis help with exam access arrangements?
Yes. A SASC-compliant diagnostic assessment provides the evidence schools need to apply for exam access arrangements such as extra time, a reader, or a scribe. Schools must also gather their own evidence of need, but the diagnostic report is a key part of the process.
Is a dyslexia assessment the same as an educational psychology assessment?
There is overlap, but they are not the same. A specialist teacher dyslexia assessment focuses on literacy, related cognitive processes, and SpLDs. An educational psychology assessment covers a wider cognitive profile and is often required for EHCP purposes. Both can be SASC-compliant for exam access arrangements when carried out by appropriately qualified assessors.
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