How do I get my child assessed for dyslexia?

Ask our Helpline about assessing dyslexia in children and young people in Scotland.

Dyslexia assessment in mainstream schools

Children and young people in Scottish state schools don’t need to get a private assessment for dyslexia to get support with their learning.

If learners in school are showing signs of being dyslexic, their school should begin a process of observing them using the Dyslexia Identification Pathway. This isn’t a one-off test, it’s a longer process over a period of time involving the young person, their class teacher(s), learning support staff and you as their parent or carer.

Call our Helpline if you’d like to speak with someone about the dyslexia identification process at school.

Dyslexia assessment in independent schools

If your child is in an independent school, speak to the Support for Learning Teacher. If they have recommended that you need an independent assessment, you can contact us to discuss the options.

When to get a private dyslexia assessment for a child or young person

As a parent or carer, you might decide to arrange a private assessment if

school won’t identify the challenges your child is facing
the school assessment process is taking too long and your child is struggling with school work
you want an independent view about what support your child needs
there is a difference of opinion as to whether your child is dyslexic or not.

Most importantly, your child sometimes needs to know why they are experiencing challenges and how they can be supported.

Speak with our Helpline advisers about options.