Why do tests tend to be less accurate the second time around?

What kind of things are tested?

Typically testing for dyslexia is carried out using tests from the BAS ( British Ability Scales) and tests the following kind of things.

Recall of Designs
Word Definitions
Pattern Construction
Matrices
Verbal Similarities
Quantitative Reasoning

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Tests tend to be less accurate a second time around because children quickly familiarise themselves with the test material. Each time the test is subsequently carried out a child can achieve a higher, score suggesting they are better than they actually are.  It is important that this does not occur as the child may then be categorised as mildly dyslexic, when in fact they may have significant dyslexic difficulties .

Once a Statutory Assessments is requested in writing, strict time limits in processing and carrying out your request must be adhered to by law.

A fixed number of weeks is allowed for each part of the process.  Ensuring LEA's don't drag there feet and that children get help quickly, to prevent them falling so far behind, they are unable to catch up.

To begin the process of getting long term help will need to write to your LEA and request a statutory assessment.  Click on to 'Your LEA' for the correct name and address of the person to contact. 

What exactly are the strict time limits?

How do they relate to the assessment?

Find out who you need to write to at your local education authority.

It is important that the letter you write to your LEA contains the correct information and makes it clear you understand your rights and are exercising them.  The sample letter is provided to help you to do this.

The most important letter you will ever write is the letter to you LEA requesting help

What is the SEN Independent Tribunal.

When parents cannot agree with a decision made by their local education authorities about their children's special educational needs, the tribunal considers appeals against such decisions.