FAQ

What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that mainly affects reading, writing, and spelling. It is caused by differences in the way the brain processes written and spoken language. Dyslexia is lifelong, but with the right understanding and support, individuals can thrive. Many people with dyslexia also show particular strengths in problem-solving, creativity, and big-picture thinking.

What is a dyslexia and ADHD combined assessment?

This assessment is available for adults only and is for educational purposes. It looks at both dyslexia and ADHD traits to give a clearer picture of how these profiles may be affecting study or work.

  • Conducted online through our secure virtual clinic

  • Lasts around 3 hours

  • Provides a full report with findings, strengths, challenges, and recommendations

  • Can be used for exam access arrangements and Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)

Please note: this assessment does not provide a medical diagnosis of ADHD and cannot be used to access medication.

What types of assessments do you offer?

  • Child dyslexia assessments – full diagnostic assessment with a detailed report and recommendations for school and home.
    Cost: £550

  • Adult dyslexia assessments – carried out online through our secure virtual clinic (approx. 3 hours).
    Cost: £550

  • Combined dyslexia + ADHD assessments (educational purposes only) – for adults who want to explore both profiles together.
    Cost: £790

  • Pre-diagnostic assessments – an informal screening session to highlight strengths and potential areas of concern. This cannot be used for exam access arrangements or DSA.
    Cost: £270

How do I book an assessment?

  • Diagnostic assessments can be booked via the Bourne Dyslexia website by completing a pre-assessment questionnaire. A 275 deposit will be requested to secure date.

  • Pre-diagnostic assessments are booked directly by email.

Once your booking is received, confirmation will be sent by email (please check your junk/spam folder).

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes. To secure a diagnostic assessment, a deposit of £275 is required. This is deducted from the final fee. The remaining balance must be paid before your report is released.

  • If travel is requested, an additional £10 fee applies, plus mileage at £0.45 per mile.

  • Payment plans are available through GoCardless, allowing instalments over 3 or 6 months (a £150 non-refundable deposit is required for instalment plans).

For pre-diagnostic assessments, full payment (£270) is due prior to the appointment.

What should I do before the assessment?

For children:

  • Ensure your child has had an eyesight test within the last 6 months.

  • Complete the pre-assessment questionnaire. Input from the school is also required before a report can be completed.

  • Share any previous assessment reports to avoid duplication of tests.

  • Let your child know they will be meeting someone interested in how they learn, and that the aim is to make learning easier.

For adults:

  • Ensure you have had an eyesight test within the last 12 months.

  • Complete the pre-assessment questionnaire sent in advance.

  • Prepare a quiet, private space with secure Wi-Fi, and have a pen and paper ready.

Where will the assessment take place?

  • Children: Usually at the South West Regional Assessment Centre (SWRAC) in Boscombe, or at the assessor’s office in King’s Park, Bournemouth. Home or school visits can be arranged for an additional £10 plus mileage.

  • Adults: Conducted remotely via our secure virtual clinic. A video link will be provided upon confirmation.

What happens during the assessment?

The assessment takes around 3–3.5 hours, with breaks as needed. The process is one-to-one and supportive, with no other persons in the room.

  • Children: Parents of under 16s may remain on the premises but not in the room.

  • Adults: The assessment takes place online, with guided tasks and activities.

In rare cases, if the learner becomes very distressed, the assessor may pause or reschedule the assessment.

What will the diagnostic report include?

  • A clear summary of key findings with diagnostic decision

  • Background information from home, school, or work

  • A breakdown of test results, including:

    • General underlying ability (verbal and non-verbal skills)

    • Academic achievement (reading, spelling, writing, handwriting)

    • Cognitive processing (memory, phonological skills, processing speed)

  • A conclusion giving a holistic view of the results

  • A table of all test scores

  • Practical recommendations for:

    • Support at home

    • Support in the classroom (for children)

    • Exam access arrangements (if required)

    • Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), if applicable

    • Access to Work and to request reasonable adjustments.

Reports are delivered within 2–3 weeks of the assessment, by secure, password-protected email.

Can an assessment report be used to apply for extra time in exams?

Yes. The report can advise what access arrangements may be suitable, such as extra time, a reader, or a scribe.

However, it is the responsibility of the school or college to apply for:

  • KS2 SATs

  • GCSEs

  • A Levels

If requested, I can complete Part 2 of Form 8 (for GCSEs and A Levels) if the school has already completed Part 1. Please provide your SENCo’s contact details so I can liaise directly.

At university or for professional-level exams, a full diagnostic assessment report is usually required as evidence.

What happens after the assessment?

  • A follow-up phone call is offered to discuss results.

  • Minor amendments to background information can be requested within 30 days of receiving the report.

  • Once the report is finalised (no later than 30 days after submission), the assessment process is formally concluded.

What if I need to cancel?

  • Assessments may be cancelled with no charge if at least 3 days’ notice is given.

  • Cancellations with less than 3 days’ notice will result in £150 of the deposit being retained.

  • Assessments cancelled due to illness or unforeseen circumstances (including on the day) can be rescheduled.

  • If the assessor needs to cancel due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, the assessment will be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity.

Is my information confidential?

Yes. All personal data is handled in line with Data Protection Guidance.

  • Raw test data, notes, and questionnaires are destroyed once the assessment process is complete.

  • Reports are securely stored for seven years after the client’s 18th birthday, or seven years for adults. After this time, copies cannot be provided. It is strongly recommended that you keep your report safely.