SpLD | University of Sunderland in London

What we can offer

Screening and Diagnostic Assessment

If you think you may be showing traits of an SpLD, we offer students an opportunity to investigate this further, with the potential of a fully funded diagnostic assessment with an educational psychologist.

Already Diagnosed?

If you have already received a diagnosis, you can forward us a copy of your diagnostic assessment report and we can discuss academic support that you will be entitled to.

Available Resources

We have a variety of resources available, range from assistive technology, examination arrangements specialist study skills sessions.

Screening and Diagnostic Assessment

Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD and other SpLDs typically impact reading and spelling skills and can also affect short-term memory and the speed at which information is processed. Individuals with an SpLD may encounter challenges when taking notes, planning, and writing essays. Expressing their knowledge and understanding in writing, especially in timed situations like exams, can be particularly difficult. Additionally, they may struggle with time management, organisational skills, and occasionally miss appointments or deadlines. If you suspect that you have an SpLD, it may be necessary for you to undergo a diagnostic assessment. Our team is available to address any concerns you may have, guide you through the assessment process, and provide advice on the available support for specific learning difficulties.

Before your assessment, you will be required to complete a dyslexia questionnaire. You have the option to pause its completion and resume later if needed. However, please note that only completed questionnaires will be reviewed and responded to. Once we have reviewed your responses, we will send you an email within 15 working days to inform you of the screening outcome. If we identify signs of a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), we will fully fund an assessment for you. However, if there are no indications of an SpLD, we will refer you to Academic Skills for general study support. If we identify signs of a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), we will fully fund a diagnostic assessment for you with an educational psychologist. However, if there are no indications of an SpLD, we will refer you to Academic Skills for general study support.

The assessment will involve a series of psychometric tests designed to evaluate spatial, verbal, memory, reading, and spelling abilities and can take up to 3 hours. The psychologist may be able to provide you with the assessment results immediately after its completion. A copy of your report will be sent to yourself and the Wellbeing team. Upon receiving the report, we will schedule an appointment for you with an adviser to review it and discuss potential support arrangements, including Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).

Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)

If you have a disability, a specific learning difficulty, or any other additional needs, such as a long-term medical condition, you may qualify for the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). Some examples of support are Specialist study skills sessions, assistive software, designed to help with processing information, visually mapping ideas or if students require information in an alternative format, a printer/scanner with a printing allowance and much more.

Examination Arrangements

Certain students may be eligible for examination arrangements, which can include accommodations such as additional time, the use of a computer, or other support. These arrangements are designed to provide equal opportunities for students with specific needs to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities during exams. For example, students with dyslexia may benefit from extra time to process information, while those with physical disabilities may require the use of a computer for writing.

Study Skills Tuition

Study Skills tuition offers personalised instruction to help you understand your learning style, leverage your strengths, and develop strategies to overcome challenges. Its goal is to improve your studying abilities, making them more effective and efficient. Your tutor will cover various areas, such as organisation, essay writing, reading, note-taking, research, revision, and procrastination.

Reasonable Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments are measures put in place to ensure equal access and opportunities for students with disabilities or additional needs. We can potentially provide library concessions, lecture slides in advance, providing assistive technology and assignment deadline extensions. These adjustments aim to remove barriers and create an inclusive learning environment, enabling students to fully participate and succeed in their academic pursuits.

This is typically funded via DSA for students who are eligible. Most international students may not eligible, although we can still look to fund these sessions for you if you have received a positive diagnosis.
Sessions are typically offered either face-to-face, or remotely, although some suppliers may only offer remote sessions.
Most students we have worked with find these sessions useful and helped build confidence

What do the sessions involve?

Specialist One to One Study Skills support is designed to empower and equip you as an independent learner with the necessary skills to work more efficiently and effectively. Through personalised sessions with your tutor, you will have the opportunity to identify your strengths and utilise strategies tailored to them, enabling you to overcome areas of difficulty and enhance your overall academic performance.
During these sessions, a wide range of topics will be covered to address various aspects of your learning journey. Some of the key areas we focus on include:

Reading Strategies: Learn techniques to improve comprehension, retention, and fluency while reading academic texts.
Note-taking Methods: Discover effective methods for taking organised and meaningful notes during lectures, seminars, and independent study.
Essay Planning: Master the art of structuring and planning essays, ensuring logical flow and coherence in your writing.
Assignment and Presentation Structure: Gain insights into how to structure and organise your assignments and presentations to effectively convey your ideas.
Proofreading Skills: Develop your ability to identify and correct spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors, ensuring your work is polished and professional.
Research Techniques: Enhance your research skills, including finding credible sources, evaluating information, and incorporating research effectively into your work.
Time Management and Organisation: Learn strategies to effectively manage your time, prioritise tasks, and stay organised to meet deadlines and reduce stress.
Attention and Concentration Techniques: Discover techniques to improve focus and concentration, enabling you to stay engaged and absorb information more effectively.
Examination and Revision Strategies: Acquire effective strategies for preparing and revising for exams, maximising your performance and confidence.
Memory Techniques: Explore various memory techniques to enhance your ability to retain and recall information more efficiently.
Presentation Skills: Develop effective presentation skills, including structuring content, engaging the audience, and delivering a compelling presentation.