Specific Learning Difficulty Assessment (SpLD) for college and university students (16+)
This assessment is for students (16+) who want to clarify their learning needs and/or require a report for a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) application.
The assessment can identify the four specific learning difficulties/differences (SpLD) recognised by SASC and accepted for DSA applications:
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dyslexia
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dysgraphia
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dyscalculia
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dyspraxia
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The process involves gold-standard tests of cognitive and academic ability (e.g., WISC-V/WAIS-IV), a feedback meeting, and a SASC-compliant psychological report.
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All assessments are carried out by Dr Aimee Swithenbank, educational psychologist and practitioner psychologist registered with the HCPC (registration number PYL32205). In-person assessments are held in Dr Swithenbank's clinic, in Colchester.
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Assessment fee - £700
This includes pre-reading of any reports and background information, an individual assessment, a feedback meeting and substantial report writing time. Full payment is required to make a booking.
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How we work
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Before the assessment, we invite you to complete an online background questionnaire.
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If the assessment is taking place remotely we will send you the exam papers in advance.
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On the day of the appointment you will undertake a range of academic and cognitive tests, as well as a diagnostic interview. ​
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Immediately after an in-person assessment, Dr Swithenbank will hold a feedback meeting to discuss the initial findings. For remote assessments, the meeting will be held online about a week later.
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Within 2 to 3 weeks of the assessment, Dr Swithenbank will send your written report, which summarises the assessment findings, confirms to presence/absence of an SpLD and includes recommendations to address any identified learning needs.
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FAQs
Where do the assessments take place?
In-person assessments are held in our Colchester clinic (CO1).
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Will I get a diagnosis?
Where there is evidence from within the assessment data, Dr Swithenbank will formally diagnose the presence of a SpLD. A diagnosis is not a guaranteed outcome of an assessment.
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How long is the assessment?
Approximately 2 hours, but this varies as the pace is set by the learner.
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When will I receive the report?
Within 2 to 3 weeks of the assessment.
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Can I submit the report with a Disabled Students' Allowance application?
Yes. The report is SASC compliant and can be submitted as evidence of your disability for the purpose of DSA applications. ​
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How much does an assessment cost? ​
£700. This includes pre-reading of any reports and background information, an individual assessment, a feedback meeting and substantial report writing time. Full payment is required to make a booking.
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Contact Us
aimee@swithenbankpsychology.co.uk
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For all new enquiries, the best way to contact Dr Swithenbank is via email.
​In your email please include your name, the age of the person to be assessed, a brief outline of your concerns and the type of work you are interested in.
