About the Service
A comprehensive dyslexia assessment provides clarity, a formal diagnosis where applicable, and a clear way forward. Many adults reach their 20s, 30s or beyond without having had a formal assessment. If you have experienced long-standing difficulties but have not had a clear explanation, an assessment can help to clarify this. For young people, an assessment can support access to appropriate adjustments and inform ongoing support.
Early identification in children is particularly valuable, as it allows support to be put in place at a crucial stage in their learning and development, helping to build confidence and prevent difficulties from becoming more entrenched.
Whether you are seeking answers for yourself, your child or a young person in your care, assessments at Brilliant Brain are thorough, evidence-based and delivered with warmth.
All assessments are conducted by Karyn Cecchini, a SASC-approved specialist assessor, in line with SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC) guidelines.
Who is the assessment for?
Assessments are available for adults, young people and children (aged 8 years +). You may be considering an assessment if:
You are an adult who has always struggled with reading, writing or organisation and want answers
You are a university student who needs a report to access Disabled Student's Allowance (DSA)
A young person is finding studying challenging at school or college and needs clarity
Your child is working hard but falling behind and you want to understand why
Your child's school has raised concerns about their reading, writing or learning
What does the assessment involve?
The assessment is a calm, relaxed process conducted in person in South East London. It takes around three to four hours with breaks as needed and involves:
A review of educational and personal background, including any previous concerns or support received
Standardised tasks covering reading accuracy, reading fluency and reading comprehension
Spelling and written expression assessments
Tests of phonological processing — the ability to notice and work with sounds in words
Assessments of working memory and processing speed
Informal observation and discussion throughout
Everything is conducted in a supportive, pressure-free environment. Many people say it was much less daunting than they expected.
What happens after the assessment?
You will receive a detailed written report including:
A formal diagnosis of dyslexia where applicable
A clear profile of cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty
Standardised scores with plain English explanations
Practical recommendations for school, college, university or the workplace
Guidance on any co-occurring conditions observed, with appropriate signposting
The report is followed by a free 30-minute online feedback session where Karyn walks you through the findings, answers your questions and discusses the best next steps.
What can the report be used for?
A diagnostic assessment report can be used to:
Apply for exam access arrangements such as extra time, a reader or a scribe
Access Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) at university
Request reasonable adjustments from an employer under the Equality Act 2010
Support an Access to Work application
Inform teaching and support in school or college
Provide clarity and understanding for the individual and their family
Next Step
The first step is a free 15-minute introductory call so we can discuss your situation, answer any questions and make sure an assessment is the right fit. There is no obligation to proceed.
Not Sure yet? Try our free screening questionnaire
What clients say
“Thank you so much for all your help - the cost is nothing compared to how you have helped us. I cannot thank you enough for your assistance and expertise. The assessment has really helped me understand my child and will help me get the best out of them. I really wish I had come across your services earlier.”
Parent of assessed child