About Me
Alison Kirke
Background
Specialist Teacher Assessor since 2008, working independently since 2010. In the past- 21 years teaching experience in London and West Sussex mainstream schools with 13 years as a SENCo/ Specialist SEN and Literacy Teacher. This includes a total of 11 years as SENCo/Specialist Teacher until 2010 at a Horsham school.
Extensive knowledge and experience of Dyslexia, Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia) Dyscalculia, Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC), Speech and Language difficulties and attention deficit conditions in children and adults. I keep my knowledge and skills up to date by attending continuing professional development courses and conferences.
DCD (Dyspraxia) in children aged under 16 years requires full diagnosis by a medical professional but I can identify dyspraxia in people aged 16 and over.
ASC, Speech and Language difficulties and ADHD always require full diagnosis by a medical professional but I can provide advice and information to parents of children with these difficulties. If you are an adult and your assessment reveals characteristics of possible autistic conditions, speech and language problems or attention difficulties, I will say so in the report and provide information about seeking a medical referral where appropriate.
Please phone or email me to discuss your needs. I may be able to help and I am happy to provide free advice. There is no obligation to book an assessment.
Qualifications
Current SpLD Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) 500002582-IF5652 (PATOSS)
AMBDA (Associate Member British Dyslexia Association)
Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing Level A (British Psychological Society)
Member Dyslexia Guild (Dyslexia Action)
BA (Hons) PGCE RSA Cert Sp LD
Current enhanced DBS check.
Base
I have an office in Queen Street, Horsham where I carry out private assessments. There is a car park with a reserved space for clients. I am usually available during school holidays. It may be possible to arrange testing at your child’s school if there are difficulties with travel. I can also travel to your place of work with your employer’s agreement for adult assessments if this is more convenient.
Private full diagnostic assessments can take place in schools or colleges by arrangement between parents and schools/colleges.
Schools/Colleges/Universities
can also request full diagnostic assessments for individual children/students. Shorter Access Arrangements assessments for exam concessions are available for students sitting GCSE/A Level exams with completion of JCQ Form 8. Please contact me for more information. I am also available for school ‘twilight’ training sessions on a variety of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities topics.