Learning DNA in Solihull offers a multidisciplinary neurodiversity clinic providing specialist assessments, therapeutic interventions, and SEND support for families and schools. This guide covers the five core service pillars: neurodiversity assessments, therapeutic interventions, SEND support services, exam access arrangements, and multidisciplinary clinic operations. We explain how each service works, who it serves, and how to access it.
Neurodiversity Assessments
Neurodiversity assessment is a comprehensive evaluation process that identifies learning differences such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. Learning DNA uses a 360-degree assessment model that examines 14 areas of learning in a single 90-minute session. This approach ensures that clinicians capture the full cognitive profile of the child rather than focusing on a single symptom.
360-Degree Assessment Process
The assessment begins with a free 20-minute consultation where parents discuss their concerns with specialists. If the clinic can help, the child undergoes the 360-degree assessment, which can be completed online or in person at the Solihull clinic. The process is led by a Clinical Psychologist and Level 7 qualified assessors, ensuring high-level diagnostic accuracy.
Diagnostic Specializations
Learning DNA provides specific diagnostic pathways for ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. For ADHD, the assessment is led by a Clinical Psychologist following NICE guidance. Autism assessments include input from both home and school environments to ensure a holistic view. Dyslexia and Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) assessments are conducted by specialist teachers with Level 5 or Level 7 qualifications.
Assessment Outcomes
Following the assessment, families receive a detailed report that outlines the child's strengths and areas for development. This report serves as the foundation for any subsequent therapeutic interventions or school support plans. The data-driven approach ensures that recommendations are tailored to the individual child's cognitive profile.
Therapeutic Interventions
Therapeutic intervention is the practical support phase that follows assessment, designed to address specific learning and behavioral challenges. Learning DNA offers a range of evidence-based therapies delivered remotely or in person. These interventions are tailored to the individual needs identified in the assessment phase.
Digital Movement Therapy
Digital movement therapy is a specialized program that uses movement to support learning and development. This therapy is delivered remotely, allowing children to participate from home. The program includes assessment and remote monitoring, ensuring that progress is tracked effectively. Movement therapy is particularly beneficial for children with sensory processing difficulties or those who struggle with fine motor skills.
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech and language therapy is provided by HCPC registered therapists who specialize in children's communication difficulties. The service begins with an initial assessment to identify specific areas of need, such as articulation, language comprehension, or social communication. Sessions can be conducted in clinic or online, depending on what suits the child best. The goal is to help children feel more understood and confident in their communication.
Personalized Therapy Programs
For children with complex needs, Learning DNA offers personalized therapy programs that may include auditory integration training or other bespoke interventions. These programs are designed to address specific sensory or processing difficulties. The multidisciplinary team works together to ensure that all aspects of the child's needs are supported in a coordinated manner.
SEND Support Services
SEND support services are specialized educational and clinical resources designed to assist children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Learning DNA provides a digital SEND clinic for schools, offering remote assessments, diagnostics, and therapy. This service is designed to reduce waiting lists and provide timely support to pupils.
Digital SEND Clinic for Schools
The Digital SEND Clinic allows schools to refer pupils for specialist support without the need for travel. Sessions are conducted online, at school, or at home, minimizing disruption to learning. The clinic uses a credit-based pricing model, where schools purchase a yearly agreement of credits that can be used for various services. This model provides flexibility and cost predictability for school budgets.
TrackAble SEND Tracking Software
TrackAble is a SEND monitoring and tracking software designed for modern data needs. It provides a centralized system for recording pupil data, evidence for EHCPs, and progress tracking. The software supports over 3,000 frameworks aligned to various schemes of work, allowing for detailed progress monitoring. TrackAble is trusted by more than 300 UK schools and is GDPR-compliant with ISO27002 and ISO9001 standards.
Whole-School SEND Loop
Learning DNA promotes a whole-school SEND loop that involves assessing, supporting, tracking, and repeating. This cyclical approach ensures that every pupil is understood, receives the right support, and makes measurable progress. The loop is designed to be efficient and evidence-based, helping schools to demonstrate the impact of their interventions.
Exam Access Arrangements
Exam access arrangements are accommodations provided to students with special educational needs to ensure fair assessment conditions. Learning DNA offers Exam Access Pro, a software solution that generates JCQ Form 8 and Form 9 documents in under 3 minutes. This tool saves SENCos hours of paperwork every exam season.
Exam Access Pro Software
Exam Access Pro is a generative form software that writes Part 1 of JCQ Form 8 for each candidate. It also handles Form 9 candidates, ensuring that all evidence is filed together and ready for inspection. The software flags any missing information before it becomes a problem, reducing the risk of application rejections. Annual licenses start from £200, with pricing based on the size of the exam cohort.
Remote Access Arrangements Assessments
For schools without a qualified assessor on site, Learning DNA offers remote exam access arrangements assessments. These assessments are conducted by Level 5 and Level 7 qualified assessors. The results are integrated directly into Exam Access Pro, so Form 8 is ready minutes later. This service ensures that schools can provide compliant access arrangements without the need for in-person visits.
Compliance and Evidence
Exam access arrangements must comply with JCQ guidelines to be valid. Learning DNA's software ensures that all forms are generated in accordance with these guidelines. The evidence filed with each form is structured to meet inspection requirements, providing schools with a robust audit trail. This compliance is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
Multidisciplinary Clinics
A multidisciplinary clinic is a healthcare or educational facility where professionals from different disciplines work together to provide comprehensive care. Learning DNA is the UK's first multidisciplinary education clinic, bringing together clinicians, assessors, and tools under one roof. This integrated approach ensures that families and schools receive coordinated support without having to navigate multiple providers.
Team Expertise
The Learning DNA team includes experienced SENCOs, specialist dyslexia teachers, ADHD and autism experts, occupational therapists, and behavioral optometrists. With over 45 years of combined experience in education, the team understands the complexities of supporting children who are struggling academically or feeling disengaged. The clinic is led by Lizzie Shearing, an experienced SENCO and Specialist Dyslexia Teacher.
Integrated Care Model
The integrated care model allows for seamless communication between different specialists. For example, a child undergoing speech and language therapy can also receive movement therapy and cognitive assessments from the same team. This coordination ensures that all interventions are aligned and that progress is tracked holistically. The model reduces the fragmentation of care that often occurs when families must work with multiple separate providers.
Location and Accessibility
Learning DNA is located in Solihull, Birmingham, and also offers fully remote services. The clinic is situated in Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull B91 3DA. Parking is available at nearby pay and display car parks. For families who prefer remote support, all services can be delivered online, ensuring accessibility regardless of location.
Key Takeaways
- Learning DNA offers a 360-degree assessment that covers 14 areas of learning in a single 90-minute session.
- Therapeutic interventions include digital movement therapy and HCPC registered speech and language therapy.
- The Digital SEND Clinic for schools uses a credit-based model to provide remote assessments and therapy.
- TrackAble is a SEND tracking software trusted by over 300 UK schools for monitoring progress and evidence.
- Exam Access Pro generates JCQ Form 8 and Form 9 documents in under 3 minutes, saving SENCos time.
- Learning DNA is the UK's first multidisciplinary education clinic, integrating various specialists under one roof.
- Services are available both in person in Solihull and fully remotely, ensuring accessibility for all families.
- The clinic is led by a Clinical Psychologist and Level 7 qualified assessors, ensuring high-level diagnostic accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 360-degree assessment?
A 360-degree assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that examines 14 areas of learning in a single 90-minute session. It is designed to capture the full cognitive profile of the child, ensuring that all strengths and areas for development are identified.
Can I access Learning DNA services remotely?
Yes, Learning DNA offers fully remote services. All assessments, therapies, and consultations can be conducted online, allowing families to access support from home without the need for travel.
What qualifications do the assessors have?
Learning DNA works with HCPC psychologists, Level 5 and Level 7 Dyslexia Assessors, NHS specialists, and trained SENCOs. The team is fully qualified and trained to deliver high-quality interventions tailored to each child's specific needs.
How does the credit system work for schools?
Schools purchase a yearly agreement of credits, with one credit equal to £100 of specialist time. Each service has a fixed credit price, so schools always know the cost before referring a pupil. Credits are only used once the service starts.
What is Exam Access Pro?
Exam Access Pro is a generative form software that writes Part 1 of JCQ Form 8 for each candidate in under 3 minutes. It also handles Form 9 candidates and ensures that all evidence is filed together and ready for inspection.
Where is the Learning DNA clinic located?
The Learning DNA clinic is located in Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull B91 3DA. Parking is available at nearby pay and display car parks, and the clinic is a short walk from the pedestrian crossing past the Esso petrol station.
Do you offer speech and language therapy?
Yes, Learning DNA offers speech and language therapy provided by HCPC registered therapists. The service begins with an initial assessment to identify specific areas of need, and sessions can be conducted in clinic or online.
How long does the assessment process take?
The 360-degree assessment takes 90 minutes. Following the assessment, families receive a detailed report outlining the child's strengths and areas for development. The entire process, from initial consultation to report, is designed to be efficient and timely.
Conclusion
Learning DNA in Solihull provides a comprehensive range of services for families and schools, from neurodiversity assessments to exam access arrangements. The multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of a child's needs are addressed in a coordinated manner. Whether you are a parent seeking support for your child or a school looking to enhance your SEND provision, Learning DNA offers the expertise and tools to make a difference. To start your journey, book a free consultation with the Learning DNA team today.