About Me


Dr Jayne Cunningham


PhD, MA, BA (Hons), PGCE, APC (PATOSS)


A friendly, experienced approach to dyslexia assessment


Hello, I’m Dr Jayne Cunningham, an experienced specialist dyslexia assessor with many years of experience in teaching, assessment and disability research.


I provide independent online dyslexia assessments for adults and young people aged 16 and over, including university students, people undertaking professional qualifications and adults in employment.


I understand that arranging an assessment can feel daunting, particularly if you are unsure what to expect. My aim is to make the experience as relaxed, supportive and straightforward as possible.


As someone who is neurodivergent themselves and has personal experience of being assessed, I appreciate that assessments can sometimes feel intimidating. I encourage questions, take time to explain what we are doing and aim to make the assessment a collaborative process rather than simply a series of tests.


I feel that I have a good understanding of the impact of mental health and also of the impact of chronic health conditions,  both physical

and invisible.


I believe that everyone brings their own experiences, abilities and challenges to an assessment, and that these deserve to be understood and respected.


My Professional Background


My background combines specialist dyslexia assessment, teaching, academic research and a longstanding interest in disability equality and neurodiversity.


I hold a    PhD in Disability Studies, with research examining disability equality policies and their effectiveness in supporting disabled and neurodivergent employees in the workplace.


I also hold a    Master’s degree in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia). My research explored the experiences of dyslexic students making the transition into higher education.


These interests have shaped my approach to assessment. I recognise that dyslexia is not simply about difficulties with reading and spelling, but can have a wider impact on learning, confidence, education and working life.


Alongside my assessment work, I have been involved in university research examining the experiences of disabled people within the UK Employment Tribunal system, including research considering disability, race and mental health.


I remain particularly interested in disability equality, neurodiversity and the ways in which people’s individual circumstances can influence their experiences of education and employment.


I also take an interest in ongoing research which explores the links between being neurodivergent and the impact that may have on physical and mental health.



My Qualifications and Professional Credentials


Academic and specialist qualifications


  • PhD – Disability Studies
  • MA – Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)
  • Postgraduate Diploma – Level 7, Dyslexia and Literacy
  • Postgraduate Certificate – Level 5, Dyslexia and Literacy
  • PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
  • BA (Hons)


Professional accreditation


  • SASC approved specialist dyslexia assessor
  • Assessment Practising Certificate (APC), held continuously since 2006
  • Full member of PATOSS
  • Current DBS check
  • Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)


My diagnostic reports follow current SASC guidelines and are designed to provide a detailed, individualised understanding of a person’s learning profile.


My Approach to Assessment


I particularly enjoy working with adults who are returning to education, studying at university, undertaking professional examinations or seeking to understand their learning differences in the workplace.


An assessment is an opportunity to explore not only areas of difficulty but also individual strengths and the strategies that may help.


During the assessment, we work through a range of activities looking at different aspects of learning and information processing. There is also time to discuss your experiences and how any difficulties may affect your studies, work or everyday life.


Following the assessment, I prepare a detailed, personalised diagnostic report, including appropriate recommendations for support.


My assessments are conducted online, allowing me to work with clients throughout the UK.


A Little More About Me


Outside my professional work, I enjoy painting and creating colourful artwork, some of which you will see throughout this website. My degree is in Fine Art.


Being neurodivergent ( Audhd, dyslexia and dyspraxia), I am a very visual

person - my hobbies (obsessions) include a huge interest in interior design and the design of household objects and furniture. I enjoy learning about history and investigating ancestry - I

may or may not also collect Jellycats …..



My interest in creativity sits alongside my professional interest in the many different ways people think, learn and experience the world.


I believe that a good assessment should be professional and thorough, but also personal, respectful and reassuring.


Thinking About an Assessment?


If you are considering a dyslexia assessment for yourself or someone aged 16 or over, please feel welcome to get in touch.


Initial enquiries are handled by email, so you can explain what you are looking for and ask any questions before deciding whether to proceed.


Email:  positivedyslexiasurrey@yahoo.com


Online dyslexia assessments available throughout the UK.



Email Me