The Learning Support Team (LST) is made up of a team of specialist teachers experienced in working with children and young people with a range of learning needs. In addition, the team is qualified to diagnose dyslexia; they are also a key component of the Dyspraxia Assessment Route.
The team carry out assessments to identify challenges to educational progress (including diagnosis of Specific Learning Difficulties—SpLDs) and make recommendations for support based upon their findings. These recommendations may include individualised programmes of support, approaches and strategies, classroom support and advice on inclusive practice.
Services include:
- Cognitive assessments
- Dyslexia (SpLD) diagnostic assessments (pupils aged eight and above)
- Dyslexia screening
- Specialist advice
- Support with interventions
- 1:1 or small group teaching
- Examination Access Arrangements
- Strengths and Needs assessments
- Learning review and progress updates
- Training packages (please see training section of directory)
- Assessment evidence for Disabled Student Allowance (Dyslexia)
This assessment provides a snapshot of a pupil's developmental profile, identifying areas of strength and potential delay. Suitable for pupils from nursery age up to the end of Year 1, it explores key areas of early development, including communication and language, early literacy and numeracy skills, attention, social interaction, emotional development, and learning behaviours.
The assessment helps to identify strengths, highlight areas requiring further support, and inform planning within the educational setting. A written report is provided, including practical recommendations to support the pupil's ongoing development and learning.
The dyslexia screener is a concise non-diagnostic assessment to identify if a pupil may be at risk of dyslexia and require further assessment or support.
It is suitable for pupils in year 1 and above.
In a morning session, the specialist teacher is able to screen up to four pupils.
A summary of the findings as well as areas for intervention are provided in a brief report for each pupil.
Non-Diagnostic Learning Assessment
Suitable for pupils from Year 1 onwards, this assessment replaces the Short Learning Assessment and Strengths and Needs Assessment.
A detailed assessment focusing on four areas of need identified by the SENDCo, providing practical recommendations to support learning and progress.
Ideal for:
- Pupils not making expected progress
- Gathering evidence for the Graduated Approach or EHCNA referrals
- Pupils with English as an Additional Language (EAL)
- Supporting applications for exam access arrangements
The assessment report identifies strengths, areas of need, and recommended next steps to aid effective support planning.
Suitable for pupils aged 8 years and over, this assessment involves a specialist teacher working 1:1 with the pupil to evaluate their cognitive profile and literacy skills, including reading, writing and spelling.
The assessment takes approximately 3 hours and is followed by a comprehensive report, produced in line with current SASC guidance. The report includes a diagnosis (where appropriate) and recommendations for interventions, classroom strategies, exam access arrangements and onward referrals.
Where dyslexia is identified, the report provides lifelong evidence that can support access arrangements and may be used in further education, training and employment.
A full diagnostic assessment of dyslexia, completed in line with the latest SASC (2025) guidelines, providing a comprehensive evaluation of cognitive and literacy skills. The assessment includes:
- Evaluation of language and reasoning abilities.
- Assessment of processing skills, including working memory, processing speed and phonological processing.
- Detailed assessment of literacy skills, including reading, spelling and writing.
- A comprehensive diagnostic report outlining the individual's strengths and areas of need.
- Clear recommendations for support and reasonable adjustments in Further Education, Higher Education, Vocational Training or the Workplace.
- Guidance on appropriate assistive technology and specialist software to support learning and workplace performance.
Where dyslexia is identified, the report provides practical, personalised recommendations to help individuals access appropriate support and achieve their full potential.