Why Assess?

Here are some of the reasons for having an assessment:

Reports for primary school aged children will highlight strengths and any areas of difficulty that may require adjustments in the Key Stage 2 SATs. The full diagnostic assessment also includes recommendations for teachers to help meet the learner’s needs at school and will also include suggestions for parents who wish to help their child at home.

Full diagnostic assessments for older children (Y9-10 and up) can be used to supply evidence of need in the JCQ Form 8, an application for Access Arrangements in GCSEs, A Levels and other educational provision. It is very important that the school SENCo/Learning Support Leader is contacted by the parents before the assessment takes place if it is likely that Access Arrangements will be needed.

The post 16 assessment report can also be used to apply for access arrangements and reasonable adjustments in Higher Education. Some students may also qualify to apply for the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) The DSA is currently under review and there are likely to be some changes in the way that funded provision is organised.

Reports for older students will include details of study skills strategies, supportive software and technology.

Full diagnostic assessment reports are emailed directly to the client or to their parents if the student is under 18 years old, usually within one
week.

If a school has requested the assessment and is paying for it, the report is sent to the school who will then share it with parents/carers.