Assessment Practising Certificate (APC)

What is an APC?

An Assessment Practising Certificate (APC) recognises the knowledge and skills of specialist teachers who have followed an appropriate course of study (e.g. an AMBDA accredited course or a course recognised by SASC) and can demonstrate their professional competence in the assessment of specific learning difficulties/dyslexia.

As reports conducted at any age may be used for DSA purposes, it is recommended that all assessors should now hold an APC, to future proof reports for dyslexic individuals so that no further assessment will be required.

An APC is valid for three years from the date of issue. APC holders must also hold a professional membership of the issuing body for the duration of the APC; the APC will be invalid should the membership lapse.

Associate Membership of the British Dyslexia Association (AMBDA) is now the professional membership required for all those applying for and holding an APC issued by the BDA. Your APC will be invalid should your AMBDA lapse during the period of the APC.

Those holding an APC must commit to continuing professional development (CPD) and the BDA Code of Ethics. All APC holders are listed on the SASC list of assessors.

Who can apply for an APC with the BDA?

• If you have completed an AMBDA accredited course or equivalent within 5 years of application - see course list on the SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC) website.
• Hold Associate Membership, AMBDA and maintain it for the duration of the APC
• Have read and agree to adhere to the BDA Code of Ethics

You can apply through the website. This is called Route 1.

• If you have completed an AMBDA accredited course or equivalent more than 5 years from application - see course list on the SASC website. You will also need to submit the following
• A log of relevant CPD completed within the last 3 years, and a full anonymised diagnostic assessment report for review
• An up to date CV
• Show that you hold Associate Membership, AMBDA and maintain it for the duration of the APC
• Show that you have read and agree to adhere to the BDA Code of Ethics

This is called Route 1+.

How to apply for an APC

For an APC through route 1 apply online via the application box on the right of this page.

• You will need to pay the fee of £180 via the credit/debit card link in the application process
• If your employer/school is paying complete the invoice option in the application process

For an APC through route 1 plus complete the APC R1+ application form

• You will need to pay the £255 fee by BACS or invoice, we can invoice organisations not individuals, payment details are on the application form
• Email accreditation@bdadyslexia.org.uk, you will be sent a SharePoint link to upload your documents to.

To renew an APC

If you have previously held an APC with the BDA or with any of the issuing bodies please visit the APC renewal web page.