Dyslexia and EHCPs

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that affects reading, writing, and spelling. For many children, school-level support (SEN support, phonics interventions, extra time) is enough. But for some, dyslexia is so severe that they need specialist provision that goes beyond what a mainstream school can ordinarily provide. That's where an EHCP comes in. An EHCP can fund specialist teaching, assistive technology, one-to-one support, and even placement at a specialist school if needed.

When to request an EHCP

Consider requesting an EHCP if: your child is significantly behind their peers in reading and writing despite targeted interventions, the gap between their ability and achievement is widening, they're becoming anxious, withdrawn, or refusing school because of their difficulties, or the school has exhausted its SEN support resources. You don't have to wait for the school to suggest it - you can request an assessment yourself at any time.

The "they're making progress" trap

Local authorities love to refuse EHCP assessments for dyslexic children by saying "the child is making progress." But progress needs context. If your child is progressing at half the rate of their peers, or their progress stalls as soon as intervention is withdrawn, that's not adequate progress. The question is whether the school can meet their needs from existing resources - and if the answer is no, an EHCP is justified.

Getting the right evidence

An educational psychologist assessment is the gold standard for dyslexia. If the school hasn't arranged one, you can request it, or you can obtain a private assessment. Include: standardised reading and spelling scores, evidence of interventions tried and their outcomes, observations about the impact on your child's confidence and wellbeing, and any other professional reports you have.

Your child's future

Without the right support, dyslexia can affect not just academics but self-esteem, mental health, and future opportunities. An EHCP ensures your child gets the support they need throughout their education - including transitions between schools and into post-16 education. It's a legally binding document that the local authority must deliver on.