Dyslexia Assessments, Specialist Teaching and Advice
Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre provides specialised Dyslexia assessments and tailored teaching services to meet the unique needs of each individual. With over 25 years of teaching experience we offer a person-centred approach to help young people overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Whether you are a parent, teacher or SENCO we are here to empower you with the knowledge, confidence and tools to make the SEND system work for the children who need it most.
Welcome from Mary Forbes-Jones - Director
Mission
Professional bodies
Qualifications
My aim is to support young people on their educational journey.
To support young people through assessments and specialist teaching.
To offer a caring, supportive and patient environment.
To offer assessments that highlight your child's strengths and weaknesses.
To offer teaching that works with your child's learning style.
Qualifications
Professional bodies
Qualifications
1994 - Bachelor of Theology Degree
1995 - Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
2012 - MA in Leadership and Management in Education
2014 - National Award for SEN Co-ordination (NASENCo)
2021 - Postgraduate Award of Proficiency in Assessment for Exam Access Arrangements (PAPAA)
2024 - Postgraduate Certificate in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)
Professional bodies
Professional bodies
Professional bodies
Mary is a member of the following
PATOSS
BDA
NASUWT
Assessments offered by Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre
Dyslexia Assessments
Dyslexia Assessments
Dyslexia Assessments
Carried out by a qualified assessor, Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre offers full Diagnostic Dyslexia Assessments.
An assessment report will be provided which will provide recommendations for home and school.
If a student receives a diagnosis of Dyslexia the Diagnostic Assessment Report can then be used to support an application for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).
Age: 8 upwards
Cost: £500.00
Learning Assessments
Dyslexia Assessments
Dyslexia Assessments
Carried out by a qualified assessor, Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre offers a learning assessment which will cover Reading, Spelling, Comprehension and Maths. Other tests can be added as needed.
This assessment will not provide a diagnosis of Specific Learning Difficulties (e.g., Dyslexia), but will pinpoint areas of need and offer recommendations for home and school.
Age: 5+
Cost: From £150
Exam Access Testing
Dyslexia Assessments
Exam Access Testing
Carried out by a qualified assessor, Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre offers Exam Access Testing.
Following JCQ guidelines, the assessor must have an established working relationship with the child's school.
Age: End of Year 9 upwards
Cost: £75.00
Other Services offered by Derbyshire Dyslexia Centre
Specialist Teaching
Specialist support for schools
Specialist support for schools
The centre offers 1-1 specialist teaching and support.
Collaborative intervention planning for children and young adults, tailored through communication with home and school.
Before teaching begins, if your child hasn't had an assessment of their learning needs or a Dyslexia Assessment, we recommend that they undergo a Learning Assessment. This ensures a clear understanding of your child's strengths and areas of need - laying the foundation for a bespoke, effective intervention programme.
If your child is currently studying for SATs/GCSE's/A Levels the centre also offers a study/revision skills programme which is tailored to a child's needs.
Age: 4 years+
Cost: From £45 per hour
Please note that due to the high demand for the above service there are only limited slots currently available for September 2025.
Specialist support for schools
Specialist support for schools
Specialist support for schools
Carried out by a Specialist Teacher and Assessor and qualified SENCO. This service is available for teachers who need guidance on how to support learners with Dyslexia.
The centre also offers bespoke support for Senior Management Teams and SENCOs, including guidance on best practice, provision mapping and the graduated response - assess, plan, do and review.
.
Age: Primary and Secondary Schools
Cost: Please enquire
SEND advice for families
Specialist support for schools
SEND advice for families
As a parent/carer navigating the complex world of SEND can be overwhelming but you don’t have to do it alone.
We provide expert support to guide you every step of the way, for example, from an initial EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) request to assess through to the final copy and beyond. Attendance at any mediation meetings is also offered.
We also offer attendance at Annual Review meetings to advocate for and support parents.
Age: Primary and Secondary
Cost: Please enquire