[senco-forum] Assessing and diagnosing for dyslexia

An interesting question and no black and white answer but here is my
tuppence worth...When I completed by AMBDA in dyslexia (1989/90) and then
later worked for the Dyslexia Institute, it was only EPs who were allowed by
them to "diagnose" dyslexia.  This was I think primarily because of the
discrepancy theory that was prevalent at the time, that supposed that there
should be gap between potential and performance.  This required the
measuring of potential (IQ) which required an EP.  I also remember that if a
child had an IQ below the average range (i.e. below 85) then it was
considered at that time that it could not have dyslexia but instead general
learning difficulties.
Even today I believe that the DI, or DA as they are now, their specialist
teachers can undertake assessments but again only refer in their reports to
dyslexia characteristic/measurement of risk of dyslexia rather than give a
label. 
I wonder however if in reality, there is no legal statement that states who
can or cannot identify a child as having dyslexia.
Regards
Carol  

-----Original Message-----
From: senco-forum-bounces at lists.becta.org.uk
[mailto:senco-forum-bounces at lists.becta.org.uk] On Behalf Of Michael Davies
Sent: 18 March 2008 15:05
To: senco-forum at lists.becta.org.uk
Subject: [senco-forum] Assessing and diagnosing for dyslexia

Can anyone confirm that holders of Practising Certificates (PATOSS and/or
Dyslexia Action) are allowed to assess and diagnose pupils--Primary,
Secondary and F >E. for dyslexia.

I have just been told that ONLY ED.PSYCH's are allowed to diagnose
individuals for dyslexia.(and give the label ¬!!!!)

Michael
SENCO

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