Holme Valley Dyslexia Centre
Address: 249 New Mill Road, Brockholes, Holmfirth HD9 , HD9 7ALAll about us
Holme Valley Dyslexia Centre – Specialist Dyslexia Assessment
About the service
I provide independent dyslexia assessments for children and young people aged 8–18.
With over 24 years’ experience in education, including roles as a primary teacher, senior leader and SENCo across three local authorities, I have extensive experience supporting children and young people with SEND.
What is included in a full assessment
A full diagnostic dyslexia assessment provides a detailed and comprehensive picture of your child’s learning profile, including strengths, areas of difficulty, and the underlying reasons for these.
It looks at both literacy skills and the cognitive processes that support reading and writing.
Areas assessed may include:
Literacy skills
- Single word reading accuracy
- Reading fluency and comprehension
- Spelling and spelling patterns
- Written expression and handwriting speed
Phonological processing
- Identifying and manipulating sounds
- Blending and segmenting
- Rapid naming
Language and understanding
- Vocabulary and verbal reasoning
- Understanding spoken language
Memory and processing
- Working memory and short-term memory
- Processing speed and efficiency
Additional areas
- Sentence structure and grammar
- Reading fluency tasks
- Written output
All assessments use up-to-date, nationally recognised diagnostic tests.
What to expect on the day
- Assessment sessions usually last 2 to 2.5 hours
- Carefully paced with regular breaks
- Around 40 short, engaging activities
- A calm, supportive approach to help your child feel at ease
Parents are welcome to stay, although many choose to leave once their child is settled.
After the assessment
You will receive:
- A detailed, SASC compliant report (approximately 30 pages)
- A clear explanation of findings
- Tailored recommendations for home and school
- A formal diagnosis of dyslexia where appropriate
- A follow-up call to talk through the report
Reports are typically shared within 4 weeks (often sooner).
Qualifications and recognition
- Level 7 Dyslexia Diagnostic Assessment qualification (PATOSS APC)
- SASC compliant assessments
- Reports accepted by schools, colleges and exam boards
- Over 24 years’ experience in education
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association (AMBDA)
- Accredited Teacher Status (ATS)
- Specialist Leader of Education (SEND)
- Enhanced DBS and paediatric first aid trained
Why families choose this service
- Extensive experience working with children and young people with SEND
- Calm, supportive approach that helps children feel at ease
- Thorough assessments with clear, practical recommendations
- A focus on understanding the whole child, not just test results
- Appointments
- Monday to Friday: 9am – 6pm
- Occasional Saturday morning availability
Who is this service for?
This service is for children and young people aged 8–18 who may be experiencing difficulties with reading, spelling or written work.
It may be helpful if your child:
- Is finding reading or spelling harder than expected for their age
- Is not making expected progress despite support in school
- Avoids reading or written tasks
- Takes longer to complete homework or written work
- Struggles to remember instructions or sequences
- Finds it difficult to organise their ideas in writing
- Has low confidence around schoolwork
It is also suitable for families who:
- Would like a clearer understanding of their child’s learning profile
- Are considering whether dyslexia may be a factor
- Need a formal diagnosis to support school, college or exam arrangements
- Want practical guidance on how to support their child at home and in school
How to access what we do
If you would like to book an assessment or discuss your child’s needs, you can get in touch in the following ways:
- Telephone: 07368 507103
- Website contact form: www.holmevalleydyslexiacentre.co.uk
- Email: holmevalleydyslexiacentre@gmail.com
I am happy to talk through your concerns, answer any questions, and help you decide whether an assessment would be appropriate.