The SCLD is committed to assessing for intervention. This means that, while important, the assessment is only a small part of the approach taken by the SCLD in assisting students with learning difficulties. Indeed, the assessment is usually a means of confirming what is already suspected by a student’s family, teacher, GP and/or paediatrician, and informing the specifics of an intervention.
The assessment is conducted by a registered psychologist, who specialises in learning difficulties and specific disorders, such as dyslexia. The assessment includes the collection of a student’s educational and developmental history, as well as a standardized assessment. The assessment tools used are evidenced-based and relevant to the student’s age and referring problem.
A feedback session provides the opportunity to discuss the assessment results outlined in a report. It is also a time to provide information about learning difficulties and specific disorders to students and their families.