Support

How we can support Indivduals and Schools

Effective support is strongest when schools, families, and specialists work together to provide consistent encouragement and practical help. Early identification, understanding, and appropriate intervention can make a significant difference to educational progress and wellbeing.

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Exclusive support. Practical strategies. Trusted guidance.

Whether you’re beginning to suspect dyslexia, have received a positive screener, or already have a diagnosis, our Members’ Area is here to support you.

Understanding dyslexia is only the first step. What comes next can often feel uncertain. Our membership is designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence—providing the guidance, reassurance, and practical tools you need at each stage.

Inside the Members’ Area, you’ll find:

  • Practical resources you can use straight away

  • Monthly recorded information sessions led by specialists

  • Opportunities to ask questions and gain trusted advice

  • In-person events to connect and deepen your understanding

We share carefully selected, manageable guidance so you can take meaningful action—without feeling overwhelmed.

This is support you can return to whenever you need it, helping you move from uncertainty, to understanding, to confident, informed action.

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What services can DES offer to Schools, Colleges and Universities?

Training and support enable teachers and support staff to develop a deeper understanding of dyslexia and implement practical, evidence-informed strategies that enhance participation, confidence, and achievement. As part of this, Dyslexia East Sussex can act as “Experts At Hand”, providing accessible, specialist guidance when it is needed most—supporting staff to make informed decisions, problem-solve effectively, and build confidence in meeting diverse learning needs. 

Contact us to find out more about our training, ongoing guidance, and tailored “Experts At Hand” support for schools, educators, parents, workplaces, and individuals with dyslexia. 

For Educational Settings we offer:

Schools play an important role in creating inclusive learning environments for pupils with dyslexia. Support we can provide can include: 

Dyslexia Screening Services 

Early Years Literacy Reports (Strengths and Recommendations) 

Exam Access Arrangement Assessments - ensuring compliance and appropriate student support

Coffee & Clarity - Understanding Dyslexia (For parents) 

From Identification to Inclusion: Dyslexia in Schools (CPD for professionals) 

Full Diagnostic Assessments (SASC and DSA Approved) 

For Individuals in education:

What are exam access arrangements
and how do I apply for them?

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Your report may include recommendations for Exam Access Arrangements (EAA). 

However, the final decision rests with your/your child’s school or educational setting, and must be based on the student’s Normal Way of Working. 

If Your Child Is in Year 9 or Above

You can ask the school to complete Form 8, Part A before the assessment. 

We can then complete Part B, and the school will be able to apply for the access arrangements if appropriate. 

It is essential to involve the school before the assessment if you want the findings to be used as part of their EAA decision‑making process. 

What is Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)?

DSA is a non‑repayable government grant that helps higher‑education students with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD), such as dyslexia. It can fund things like:

  • Specialist study‑skills support

  • Assistive technology

  • Software and equipment

  • Other non‑medical support that helps remove learning barriers

Who can apply? DSA is available to:

  • Full‑time and part‑time students

  • Open University and distance learners

  • Postgraduate students

You can apply whether you’re starting a course or already studying. You can also receive DSA alongside normal student finance.

Key points

  • DSA is not means‑tested

  • It is not a loan and does not need to be repaid

  • The support you receive is based on your individual needs

  • There are some limits on what DSA can be used for

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How do I employ a specialist tutor?

Dyslexia East Sussex is pleased to offer a range of specialist tuition, delivered either on a 1:1 basis or in small groups. To find out more about how we can support your child at The Learning Loft, please get in touch—we would be happy to discuss the options available.

What to Look For:

A good specialist tutor should:

  • Hold a recognised dyslexia qualification (Level 5, Level 7, ATS, AMBDA)

  • Be a member of PATOSS, the Dyslexia Guild, or the BDA

  • Have an up‑to‑date DBS and insurance

  • Use multi‑sensory teaching and follow recommendations from diagnostic reports

They may also offer:

  • Assistive technology support

  • Contact with your child’s school

  • Opportunities for you to observe sessions

  • Progress updates

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Contact Us to talk through your requirements

Contact us today to talk through your requirements—we’re always happy to listen and help you explore the best support options, whether you’re a parent seeking tuition, a SENCO planning a bespoke inclusion project, or a local organisation looking to collaborate.