What is a SPLD Assessor and how do you become one?

What is a SPLD Assessor?

An SPLD Assessor is a professional who specialises in identifying and assessing Specific Learning Disabilities (SPLDs), such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. These assessors are trained to conduct comprehensive evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities and recommend appropriate support and accommodations.

What is SPLD?

SPLD typically refers to "Specific Learning Disability." It is a term used in education and psychology to describe a type of learning difficulty that affects a person's ability to acquire specific academic skills, such as reading, writing, or mathematics. Individuals with SPLD may experience challenges in one or more specific areas while exhibiting average or above-average intelligence in others.

Common types of SPLD include:

Dyslexia: Difficulty with reading and related language-based processes.

Dysgraphia: Difficulty with writing, including spelling and handwriting.

Dyscalculia: Difficulty with mathematical concepts and computation.

What are the responsibilities of a SPLD Assessor?

An SPLD Assessor has a range of responsibilities centred around evaluating, diagnosing, and supporting individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities.

Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Administering a variety of standardised tests and observational methods to evaluate a person's reading, writing, and mathematical skills, as well as other cognitive and language-related abilities.
• Analysing assessment results to determine if an individual has an SPLD and, if so, which specific disability they have.
• Preparing comprehensive reports detailing assessment findings, including the diagnosis, the individual's strengths and weaknesses, and any other relevant information.
• Communicating findings and recommendations to parents, educators, and other stakeholders to foster understanding and support for the individual.
• Engaging in ongoing training and professional development to maintain expertise in the field.
• Educating parents, teachers, and other professionals about SPLDs, their impact, and effective strategies for support.

What skills do I need to have?

• Assessment skills: Proficiency in administering and interpreting standardised tests and assessment tools.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyse assessment data to determine specific learning needs and challenges.
• Communication skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to explain complex assessment results and recommendations in a way that is accessible to parents, educators, and other stakeholders.
• Interpersonal skills: Ability to build rapport with students, parents, teachers, and other professionals.
• Organisational and time management skills: Ability to meet deadlines and maintain a structured workflow.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Ability to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including educators, special education professionals, speech and language therapists, and psychologists.

How do I become a SPLD Assessor?

To become an SPLD Assessor, you'll need a combination of relevant education, training, and experience in the field of education, psychology, or special education.

The general steps you can take to pursue a career as a SPLD Assessor include:

• Education: Start by a obtaining a degree in a relevant field such as education, psychology, or special education. This provides a foundational understanding of learning processes and education systems.
• Experience: Gain experience working with children or adults in educational settings. This could be through teaching, special education, tutoring, or educational support roles.
• Training: Consider pursuing a postgraduate qualification in a related field, such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Specific Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, or Educational Psychology. Look for specialised courses or certificates that focus on assessing and supporting individuals with SPLDs.
• Professional development: Stay updated with the latest research, tools, and methods in SPLD assessment. Participate in continuing professional development (CPD) courses and workshops. Engage with other professionals in the field to learn from their experiences and share insights.

By following these steps, you can build the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to become an SPLD Assessor. Additionally, always check specific requirements for the role or position you're interested in, as some organisations may have additional criteria for their assessors.

Looking for a SPLD Assessor position?

Here at Archer Resourcing, we have excellent SPLD Assessor opportunities across the UK.

Click here to view our unique fully remote opportunity or call us today on 01473 939670 and a member of our Healthcare team will be happy to discuss the roles we have available.