Supporting Your Journey with Specific Learning Difficulties
Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
At NATTC, we understand the challenges faced by individuals with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD or SLD). SpLD is an umbrella term that is used to refer to one or multiple of the following: Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. These conditions fall within the broader definition of neurodiverse conditions, and our mission is to provide comprehensive diagnostic assessments and support to help you thrive and discover your full potential.
Our highly experienced assessors deliver comprehensive, structured and specialised assessments focusing on a trans-diagnostic approach to provide the deep understanding we need to build a complex picture of your personal needs beyond assessing for a singular SpLD. We ensure that each assessment is personalised and tailored to suit you, as we strongly believe that everyone is unique and may not indicate the same ways.
*We also provide a Triaging Screen for ADHD and/or Autism (ASC) – Please contact us for more information.
Our Qualified Assessors
To ensure accurate diagnoses, our assessors hold specialised and required qualifications:
- Dyslexia & Dysgraphia: AMBDA (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association)
- Dyscalculia: AMBDAD (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association for Dyscalculia)
- Dyspraxia and ADHD and ASC: Assessors undergo SASC-approved courses to provide diagnostic opinions and/or medical referral.
SpLD’s not including ADHD and ASC (ASD)
Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a condition that affects an individual’s ability to understand numbers and mathematics. People with dyscalculia may struggle with tasks such as calculating, remembering numbers, understanding math concepts, and staying on time. These difficulties are usually persistent from childhood and require tailored teaching methods and coping strategies from certified assessors. At NATTC, we are fortunate to have Pete Jarrett, one of the leading experts in this field. He is the Chair of the BDA’s Dyscalculia Committee and a specialist teacher and assessor.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia affects reading and language-based processing skills. People with dyslexia may struggle with reading, writing, spelling, verbal memory and organisation. It’s a common condition, estimated to affect 10% of the population (BDA source) and can vary in severity but is manageable with proper support and strategies. Dyslexia is not related to intelligence, and it’s important to recognize the benefits of different thinking styles. Many dyslexic individuals can excel in visual and creative fields.
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects gross and fine motor skills and can also affect verbal/oral skills. Individuals with Dyspraxia may find tasks requiring coordination, balance, and motor skills, such as writing or tying shoelaces, challenging. With Dyspraxia, the signals from the brain to the muscles are interrupted and it should not be confused with other movement disorders, such as cerebral palsy.
Dysgraphia (Writing difficulties)
Dysgraphia is a neurological condition that makes it difficult for individuals to turn their thoughts into written language, despite adequate instruction and education. It also affects spelling, handwriting, and expressing thoughts on paper. It usually becomes noticeable when children start learning to write. Supportive techniques, accommodations and modifications advised from a professional are necessary to efficiently manage the condition.
The Assessment Process
1
Step 1: Initial Screening
- Collect non-clinical data to identify potential ADHD or Autism indicators.
- Assign the appropriate assessor based on initial findings.
2
Step 2: Assessment - Part 1
- Detailed review of developmental, educational, and family history.
- Identification of strengths and areas of challenge.
- Assessment of indicators, presentations or indicators of ADHD or Autism.
3
Step 3: Assessment - Part 2
- Selection of appropriate tests based on SASC guidelines.
- Administration of tests to measure specific condition indicators.
- Analysis of test scores and history to make a professional diagnosis.
4
Step 4: Reporting and Recommendations
- Detailed report with screening results.
- Personalised strategies to support your daily life and work environment.
- Referral for further diagnostic assessment if necessary.
- Recommendations for a Workplace Needs Assessment if necessary.
5
Step 5: Post-Assessment Support
Our support doesn’t end with the assessment. We provide detailed reports with actionable recommendations to help you build effective strategies for working and learning. If additional assessments/screening for conditions like ADHD or Autism are needed, we will guide you through the next steps.
Client Testimonial
Get in touch
At NATTC, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more or book a free 15-minute chat to discuss how we can help you