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DD (8) diagnosed as dyslexic...where do we go from here?

5 replies

elltee · 01/07/2014 15:57

DD had a detailed (private) assessment which has concluded that she needs at least one 1-2-1 specialised literacy support session each week. Her local authority screening assessment is in 2 weeks time. She's had some literacy support in and out of school since year 2 and is generally making the averages for her year group - she's in a large, non-selective state primary in an inner London borough.

We were thinking of changing schools (from state to private) but the two (selective) schools we considered have said a big fat no - in essence, they have no interest in supporting her. I am sceptical about the less selective private schools locally.

Her current school have responded well after a bit of prodding, and are promising 2x literacy sessions and any other learning support that the LEA assessment recommends -

I am now cacking it somewhat anxious about what we do for secondary school. At a borough level, secondary results are some of the worst in London. The three nearest schools have all had turnarounds in recent years - one's now an academy, one's 'much improved' but none are the kind that people kill to get into iysim. There are two free schools, both already oversubscribed. Plenty of kids take the eleven plus for grammar school and then commute 10-15 miles to Kent - but I don't know if it's even a realistic option for DD. There are better schools in the next borough, but the good ones are all vv oversubscribed.

Sorry, lots and lots of questions but I don't know where to start. I didn't grow up in the UK so the school system is still a mystery to me......I'm not dyslexic and neither is my DH so we are rather lost.....

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Handywoman · 01/07/2014 16:16

Firstly, take a deep breath.... Secondly, you can't sort out all of your dd's education in one fell swoop. Forget about secondary schools for a minute (but do bear in mind those with the best academic results aren't necessarily the best suited to your dd).

What else does the report say? What are the difficulties? Can you afford a good specialist tutor? Is reading a big problem? Does she have access to audio books? Is she struggling with visual processing? Break it down into chunks, tackle it one bit at a time. If the private assessment was done by a good, local ed psych they could (and should) signpost you to local resources. Your dd may find Headsprout a good programme. Keep half on eye on secondary school, ask other parents, do some networking, dig deeper than the Ofsted reports because these can hide a multitude of sins....

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billiejeanbob · 01/07/2014 18:11

I am currently going through the same with my dd. she is 8yo and has been dx as dyslexic.
we are currently going to tribunal to obtain specialist dyslexia provision within ms for her.
There are a few independent specialist dyslexia schools in the UK that enable dcs with specific learning difficulties to achieve to their potential with on sight therapies and all subjects are taught by specialist teachers.
also have a look on amazon at the the book toe by toe. this is a reading programme for dyslexic pupiks and has excellent reviews.

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elltee · 01/07/2014 22:20

Thanks both....her reading is average but following lots of help. The report says she shows signs of visual stress, and there's a big disparity between her verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Spelling brilliantly bonkers - think 'arnswa' for answer. Rote learning really difficult - days if the week, months of the year, number bonds, times tables.

Thanks for the recommendations - yes, we are in a position to get specialist tuition but just trying to get our heads round it. I have felt since reception that there was an issue - DH has been in denial a bit, now feeling guilty and overcompensating.

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frazzledbutcalm · 01/07/2014 22:46

I'd recommend going to see a colour optometrist. We saw Ian Jordan in Scotland, free under NHS there. Here in UK centres test for around £250. My dc have coloured lens glasses for their visual stress and sensory problems ... with FANTASTIC results!

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Safeinourbubble · 02/07/2014 06:41

We use a behavioural optometrist, too, in Petersfield. Had really good results from it.

It sounds like your DD will get support where she is now - so, that is the present sorted. You could use a specialist tutor outside school to help, too. There are services if you can pay.

Longer-term? You need to see how your DD responds with the right support and then, ask round - she will need a good learning support department. Dyslexia is pervasive so she may well need accommodation right through school and uni'. You can go the private SpLD route - some of their schools are amazing; they just won't have been on your radar until now.

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