Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs)

What is a Specific Learning Difference (SpLD)?

Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs) affect the way information is learned and processed. SpLDs are:

• Neurological rather than psychological.
• Usually run in families.
• Occur independently of "intelligence".
• Traits can be influenced by external social factors.
• Can have a significant impact on education, learning and the acquisition of literacy skills.
• A natural part of a neurodiverse society.

Types of SpLDs

Outside of academia, these are usually referred to as 'neurodivergent' conditions.

SpLD is an umbrella term used to cover a range of frequently co-occurring difficulties, such as:

• Dyslexia.
• Dyscalculia.
• Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). [Video: 4 mins 42 secs. Captions and transcript available].
• Dysgraphia.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - (C)ombined, (H)yperactive or (I)nattentive. [Video: 6 mins. Captions and transcript enabled].

Use of the term 'SpLD' at UCL

Within the Disability, Mental Health and Wellbeing team we use the phrase ‘Learning Difference’ rather than ‘Learning Difficulty’.

We follow the social model of disability

We believe the use of ‘difficulty’ puts the emphasis on the individual rather than the impact of a structurally non-inclusive environment.

Learn more about the Social Model of Disability.

We’re moving away from the concept of ‘intelligence’

The phrase ‘Learning Difficulty’ is commonly, and mistakenly, linked to intelligence. There is no scientific evidence for this. An emphasis on intelligence can marginalise various groups of people who communicate in various ways either verbally, electronically, with hand signs and more.

By being intentional with the language we choose to use, we seek to ensure everyone has access to support and advocacy where possible.

We will strive to stay up-to-date

Terminology continually changes and, as an institution, we can be progressive in using phrases that reflect our culture of inclusiveness and individuality.

As some of our data is directly linked to external partners, including Student Finance England (SFE) and UCAS, you may still see the phrase ‘Learning Difficulty’, for example, on Portico.

In the end, the choice is yours – let us know how you want to be recognised

No two individuals experience the same combination of difficulties or life experiences.

Some people may exhibit signs of more than one SpLD. Some people may not view their specific learning difference as a disability. We will describe you as you prefer in your appointments.

Read how we view the term 'disability'.

Common characteristics of SpLDs

Some common characteristics of SpLDs are:

• Memory difficulties.
• Organisational difficulties.
• Writing difficulties.
• Reading difficulties.
• Time management difficulties.
• Visual processing difficulties - struggling to understand and interpret what you're looking at.
• Auditory processing difficulties - struggling to process what you've heard quickly or clearly.
• Sensory distraction - struggling to screen out external visual or auditory stimuli.
• Sensory overload - a heightened sensitivity to visual stimuli and sound; an inability to cope with busy environments.
• Struggling with anxiety and/or depression - the pressure of navigating society and life without adequate support increases the likelihood of having comorbid anxiety and/or depresssion.

The list is not exhaustive and can vary from person to person. They can also be further affected by other conditions and even socio-econonic status.

Information modified from British Dyslexia Association and Student Loans Company via Dyslexia Association UK.

SpLD at UCL

Tell us about your SpLD

Applicants

The best way to let us know is to register with us via the Applicant Support Questionnaire (ASQ) on Portico.

Here you'll be able to upload supporting documents and detail the support you need. You can also provide consent for us to handle your data to implement the support.

We will get in touch once we review your ASQ.

Enrolled students

You can contact us via askUCL to ask for a screening or inform us about your SpLD diagnosis.

Get an SpLD screening and assessment

At UCL, we offer a no-fee screening for dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD indicators. There are two routes available to ensure we can help as many students as possible:

• External assessments with our partners - this is available to Home students and those with pre-settled status prior to enrolling at UCL who will then apply for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).
• In-house assessments with our certified SpLD specialists - this is for all overseas students and any home/pre-settled students not eligible for an external assessment.

Eligibility

• Be fully enrolled with no debt to UCL.
• Don't already have an ADHD/SpLD diagnosis.
• If you haven't had an eye test in the last 2 years, you will be asked to have an eye test and provide evidence, so please do this as soon as possible.
• Return your completed screening form before the submission deadline.

Request an SpLD questionnaire

What support can I get?

Following confirmation of an SpLD, you will be able to access various forms of support ranging from:

• Summary of reasonable adjustments (SoRA) for exams, coursework, and teaching and learning settings.
• Specialist Study Skills Support in a 1-2-1 setting.
• Access to assistive technology.
• Library extensions.
• Evidence to apply for Disabled Students' Allowance (Eligibility dependent).

Find out more about the support we provide on our dedicated page.