Understand Your Child’s Learning Needs

At the Literacy and Learning Centre, we offer expert academic and educational assessments for children and adolescents. Our assessments help identify learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, and provide clear, practical recommendations for school and home support.

We provide academic and learning difficulties assessments for children and adolescents across Sydney and the Inner West, with remote options available for families who cannot attend in person.

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Not sure which assessment your child needs?

A quick guide to help you choose:
• Reading, spelling or writing concerns → Academic / Literacy / Dyslexia Assessment
• Attention, focus, organisation or impulsivity → ADHD Assessment
• Difficulties across several areas or you’re unsure → Comprehensive Learning Assessment

 

You don’t need to decide alone

If you’re unsure, start anywhere. We’ll guide you to the right assessment once we understand your child’s needs.

 

Why Book an Academic or Learning Difficulties Assessment?

We assess primary and secondary school students who are experiencing ongoing difficulties with reading, writing, spelling, maths, or general learning progress.

If your child is having difficulty keeping up at school, an academic assessment can help uncover the reasons behind their struggles and provide a clear path forward. Early identification of learning challenges allows for timely intervention and support.

Common reasons for assessment include:

• Difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, or maths

• Ongoing struggles at school despite support

• Low academic confidence or reluctance to learn

• Concerns raised by teachers or learning support staff

• Suspected Specific Learning Disorders, including:

  • Dyslexia – challenges with reading and spelling

  • Dysgraphia – difficulties with handwriting and written expression

  • Dyscalculia – problems with understanding maths and numbers

 

 

What an Academic / Learning Difficulties Assessment Involves

Our assessments are completed by qualified psychologists with expertise in child learning and development. Each assessment includes:

• A parent interview and background history (initial consultation)

• Review of school reports and any previous assessments

• Standardised academic testing in reading, writing, spelling, and maths. The WIAT‑III (Wechsler Individual Achievement Test – Third Edition) is the most commonly used assessment; however, alternative standardised tests can be used when appropriate.

• Observations of your child’s approach to tasks

• A comprehensive report with clear results and recommendations

• Cognitive testing can also be included when additional information about a child’s learning profile is needed.

 

 

What You Will Gain From an Academic Assessment

The final report provides a thorough picture of your child’s academic profile, including:

• Whether your child meets criteria for a Specific Learning Disorder

• Strengths and challenges across academic areas

• How your child learns best

• Recommendations for tailored support at school and home

• Guidance on school accommodations and interventions, such as ILPs or specialist referrals

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Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can a child complete an academic assessment?

Academic assessments can be completed once a child has had exposure to reading, writing, and maths instruction. Most school‑aged children can be assessed reliably from early primary school onwards.

 

Do you assess for dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia?

Yes. Our assessments examine reading, writing, spelling, and maths skills, along with the underlying processes that contribute to learning.

 

Do you offer remote assessments?

Remote (online) assessments are available for families who cannot attend in person. These are generally suitable for children around 7 years and older.

 

 

Can cognitive testing be included?

Yes. Cognitive testing can be added when further information about a child’s learning profile is needed

 

Where we work

We support families from across Sydney, including the Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, Lower North Shore, Western Suburbs and regional NSW.

Remote assessments are available for families who cannot attend in person.

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How an Academic Assessment Supports Your Child

An academic assessment is a powerful tool to help your child succeed. With greater insight into their learning style and needs, families and teachers can better support each child’s educational journey.

Click here to find out more about Dyslexia Assessments in Sydney

Contact us to find out more or to book an assessment.

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Not sure if you child needs an assessment?

Why not fill out our Learning Assessment Checklist — Click here