AYLD

UK-Wide Dyslexia and Learning Difference Assessments
Providing specialist assessments for children, young people and adults affected by learning difficulties.

Welcome - How we help

We are glad you are here. If you or someone you care about is experiencing difficulties with reading, writing, processing information, attention or coordination, you’re in the right place. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about where to start. We’re here to make the process clear, supportive and reassuring from the very beginning. We provide expert specialist assessments for children (from age 8), teenagers and adults experiencing challenges related to:

Dyslexia
Dyspraxia (DCD)*
Characteristics of Dysgraphia
ADHD*
Other Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs)

We carry out every assessment with care and sensitivity, recognising that each person’s experience, strengths and difficulties are unique. Providing supportive online assessments for children, students and adults across the UK, with in-person appointments available in Cambridgeshire. From this we provide reports, practical recommendations withan experienced specialist assessor guiding you through the process.

If you would like to discuss your concerns or are unsure which type of assessment may be appropriate, please email us or call 07899 805769. We would be very happy to talk things through with you.

How the assessment works

*ADHD and Dyspraxia (DCD) assessments are offered for individuals aged 16 and over, in line with SASC guidelines. These are educational, non-medical assessments offered as part of a broader SpLD profile.

Our Services

We offer comprehensive diagnostic assessments for a wide range of Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs). Our assessments are suitable for individuals of all ages and are designed to provide a clear understanding of learning strengths and challenges.

Each assessment includes a detailed report with tailored recommendations to support learning, study, and work performance. Where appropriate, our reports can be used to apply for JCQ exam access arrangements, Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), or workplace adjustments.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a set of processing difficulties that affect the acquisition of reading and spelling. In dyslexia, some or all aspects of literacy attainment are weak in relation to age, standard teaching and instruction, and level of other attainments. Across languages and age groups, difficulties in reading fluency and spelling are a key marker of dyslexia.

Dyspraxia*

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects motor coordination and can cause difficulties with tasks requiring fine motor skills, balance, and coordination.

*Dyspraxia (DCD) assessments are offered for individuals aged 16 and over, in line with SASC guidelines. These are educational, non-medical assessments offered as part of a broader SpLD profile.

ADHD*

ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. For individuals aged 18 and above, ADHD can impact both academic and work environments.

*ADHD assessments are offered for individuals aged 16 and over, in line with SASC guidelines. These are educational, non-medical assessments offered as part of a broader SpLD profile.

Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia impacts handwriting and fine motor skills, making it difficult to write clearly or organise thoughts in writing. Individuals with dysgraphia may struggle in academic or professional environments that require extensive writing, such as exams, reports, or notes.

Who we help

We provide specialist assessment services to organisations across the UK and internationally, as well as working closely with parents, children, and individuals. At AYLD, we partner with mainstream and independent schools, colleges, and educational consultants, while also supporting families and adults who are looking for greater understanding of their learning needs. Most of our assessments are carried out remotely for ease and flexibility, with in-person appointments available in Cambridgeshire. We assess both children and adults for dyslexia, ADHD, and dyspraxia on a non-medical basis, and our reports are designed to be clear, supportive, and practical—offering guidance on access arrangements, applications for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and Access to Work, personalised learning strategies, and long-term educational and workplace progress. Our aim is to provide clarity, reassurance, and meaningful next steps for every individual we work with.

Parents & Children

Students

Schools & SENCO's

Universities & Colleges

Who's going to be helping you

Deborah Woolley – Specialist Teacher & SpLD Assessor

I have over 20 years’ experience in education and specialist assessment, working across school, further and higher education, and workplace settings.

I provide dyslexia assessments from age 8 through to adulthood, alongside post-16 assessment of Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs), including the exploration of attention/ADHD and dyspraxia/DCD-related characteristics within an educational context.

Qualifications & Professional Credentials

MA (Ed SpLD) – Specific Learning Difficulties
BA (Hons)
PGCE (QTLS)
Postgraduate Dyslexia qualification – BDA ATS
CCET – Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing
AAC – Access Arrangements
Current SpLD Assessment Practising Certificate (APC), issued through PATOSS – held since 2012
Enhanced DBS checked
Ongoing specialist Continuing Professional Development (CPD)