Specific learning difficulties (SpLD)

SpLD is an umbrella term for patterns such as dyslexia (reading/spelling), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (maths). These are learning differences — not a reflection of effort or intelligence.

Ask about learning support Assessment services

Who it’s for

  • Students who work hard but struggle with reading, writing, or maths compared with peers
  • Families who want clear guidance on accommodations and skill-building priorities
  • Schools planning targeted support and exam access arrangements (where applicable)

Common concerns

  • Slow, effortful reading; guessing words; difficulty with comprehension due to decoding effort
  • Spelling challenges; messy written work; difficulty organising written ideas
  • Maths facts not “sticking”; confusion with place value; difficulty with word problems
  • Homework taking a long time and causing stress
  • Low confidence and avoidance of literacy or maths tasks

How we help

  • Clarify strengths and needs through assessment (when appropriate)
  • Translate findings into specific classroom strategies and home support
  • Recommend reasonable adjustments (extra time, reduced copying load, assistive tools)
  • Support skill-building plans that are structured and realistic
  • Work with schools and tutors to align expectations and methods

What you can expect

  • A clear explanation of the learning profile, without blame
  • Prioritised recommendations (what matters most first)
  • Tools to reduce overload (assistive technology, templates, and routines)
  • Follow-up options to support implementation

Next steps

  1. Document patterns: what is hard, what helps, and where difficulties show most.
  2. Consider assessment if you need clarity for support planning or accommodations.
  3. Start support early — confidence often improves when demands match needs.

FAQs

Does dyslexia mean low intelligence?

No. Many students with dyslexia have average or high reasoning ability. Difficulties are often specific to decoding/phonological processing and related literacy skills.

What accommodations are commonly helpful?

Extra time, reduced copying, access to typed responses, assistive technology, and clear marking criteria can reduce barriers. Specific supports depend on the student’s profile and school policy.

Will my child always struggle?

With the right support, many students make strong progress. The goal is both skill growth and removing unnecessary barriers so the student can show what they know.

Is tutoring enough?

Tutoring can help, but it works best when aligned to the student’s learning profile and includes structured practice. Sometimes accommodations and strategy coaching are equally important.

Can SpLD affect Chinese and English differently?

Yes. Language structure and teaching methods matter. We consider language background carefully when interpreting learning patterns.

Do you assess for SpLD?

We can assess learning profiles and provide recommendations. If a formal diagnostic label is needed for a particular purpose, we’ll advise on the most appropriate pathway.