Resource
Screening, assessment, or strengths profile?
The right route depends on the question you need answered. Some families need an initial indication. Some need a formal diagnostic assessment. Some need practical support planning first.
How the options differ
These routes are not a ladder that every child must climb. They answer different questions, and Jen can help you decide which is proportionate for your situation.
| Option | Question it helps answer | Age range | Cost | Important limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dyslexia Screening | Are dyslexic-type difficulties indicated, and what should we consider next? | 7 to 16 | £125 | A screening does not diagnose dyslexia. |
| Diagnostic Dyslexia Assessment | Is the learner's profile consistent with dyslexia, and what recommendations follow? | 8 to 16 | £550 | A diagnosis is not guaranteed. The evidence may point to dyslexia, another pattern, or a mixed picture. |
| Strengths and Difficulties Profile | What are the learner's current strengths, needs, and useful support strategies? | 7 to 16 | £250 | A profile supports planning, but it is not a diagnostic dyslexia assessment. |
When screening may be enough
Screening can be useful when you want a clearer initial view before deciding whether a full assessment is needed.
A careful first look
Screening can help parents and schools talk about the right next step, but it should not be treated as proof of dyslexia or used as a formal diagnostic report.
When a full assessment may be better
A Diagnostic Dyslexia Assessment is more suitable when you need a detailed, formal understanding of the learner's literacy and related processing profile.
- The learner is aged 8 to 16.
- Concerns have persisted despite support or practice.
- Parents and school need detailed findings and recommendations.
- There is a clear need to understand whether the profile is consistent with dyslexia.
- You want a report that explains strengths as well as areas of difficulty.
When a profile may be the right fit
A Strengths and Difficulties Profile can be helpful when the main priority is practical planning, especially if school or home needs a clearer picture of what support may help.
Useful without over-claiming
The profile can describe strengths, areas for development, and recommendations. It does not provide a dyslexia diagnosis or guarantee any particular school provision.
New enquiries are currently paused
This comparison remains available to help families and schools understand each assessment route while new enquiries are paused.