Access Arrangements + JCQ Form 8.

We carry out standardised testing for Access Arrangements and complete Form 8s in line with the latest JCQ guidelines. Working closely with SENCos and their teams, testing is carried out efficiently, using the latest approved standardised tests and all genuine test materials are supplied. We process and return Form 8s quickly and securely and provide the SENCo with a spreadsheet containing a summary of scores and observations. All Access Arrangement testing is carried out by Specialist Teacher Assessors holding an Assessment Practising Certificate.

We have established working relationships with schools across the region and always happy to establish new ones.

SpLD specialist screening.

A screening considers a range of SpLDs, co-occurrences and other possibilities impacting on learning (for eg. Visual Stress) and highlights any potential indicators to identify pathways forward. Although a screening does not formally identify or diagnose a Specific Learning Difficulty, it establishes whether a learner has indicators of a SpLD or whether the difficulties they are experiencing may be due to other reasons. Upon request, screenings can focus upon specific areas of concern raised by a tutor or learner, for example aspects of literacy.

A screening appointment commissioned by a college can take place at the SpLD South office or college premises. It takes approximately 1 hour on a one-to-one basis with the learner and involves a range of standardised tests, observation and tutor & learner discussion.

Diagnostic assessment (post-16).

A diagnostic assessment is an in-depth exploration of a student’s learning profile, allowing us to discover cognitive and literacy strengths and challenges that are presented in the learning environment. For college and sixth form students aged 16 upwards, a diagnostic assessment can formally identify dyslexia, dyspraxia and dysgraphia as Specific Learning Difficulties, if appropriate, with referrals being made for any co-occurring indicators of ADHD and ASD.

An assessment appointment commissioned by a college or sixth form can take place at the SpLD South office or college premises. It takes approx. 3 hours (over one or two sittings) and uses a range of standardised tests, observation and teacher / student discussion. Preliminary feedback is given after the assessment and a detailed report summarises the student’s profile, conclusion and recommendations at an individual and wider level. Specific recommendations can also be made in line with the college’s resources and professional development aims. 

A formal identification of a SpLD is often required to access funded support, for e.g. the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). Our post-16 diagnostic assessments are conducted in line with the latest SASC guidelines (2019), meaning that they are suitable beyond post-16 education, university and support a DSA application. It can also provide answers or closure to individuals who have questions about their past or current difficulties.

Upon request, the assessment can also be used for Access Arrangements and JCQ Form 8 application.

“Thank you for an amazing service, you put us all at ease and have given him the belief that he really can complete a degree.”

Parent of Sixth Form Student, Sept 2018

SpLD awareness training.

Our SpLD awareness training sessions are tailored to suit a range of needs and different levels of knowledge. Workshops includes raising awareness of SpLDs and co-occurrences, identifying potential adjustments in the learning environment and exploring inclusive college-wide practices to support pupils with SpLDs.

SpLD South has delivered training sessions across a range of industries, from the health/social care to engineering sectors. Our ethos is to identify potential, open pathways and share our knowledge and best working practices. Our training sessions are hands-on, interactive and engaging, demonstrating the benefits of using multisensory strategies.