Step One: Consultation

The first step in the process is a phone conversation, during which parents are able to confidentially share information about their child.  Specialist and school reports are often shared via email before or after this conversation. This introductory phase assists us in forming a picture of the child’s learning and social/emotional needs.  It also serves as an opportunity to detail what we can offer as a centre, and start the process of matching students with available teachers, each of whom have their own areas of specialisation and experience.

Step Two: Assessment

This is followed by an initial assessment, which provides an opportunity for us to meet the child and discover the starting point and goals for our teaching.  Standardised reading and spelling tests are used, which cover word decoding, text reading accuracy, rate of reading, comprehension and single word spelling.  Phonological awareness, mathematics , oral language and/or writing screening tests may be added, depending on the student’s learning needs. For students at Prep level, a standardised test is available, which covers the ‘building blocks’ of learning, identifying any gaps in a wide range of developmental areas.  The results of the assessment, as well as an outline for a support program and practical strategies for assisting the student are reported back to parents. This valuable information is ready for parents to share with teaching and support staff at their child’s school.

Step Three: The journey begins

The teacher who is best placed to work with the student is then approached, as our teachers each have their own areas of expertise and experience.  Placement also depends on the parent(s) or guardian(s) availability to bring the student to the centre, which needs to match the availability of the teacher.  Some in our team work during the school day, others before or after school, or on Saturday mornings.  The selected teacher will then arrange session times and discuss payment options.

Fees and costs

The current cost of our one-on-one specialist teaching sessions is between $90 and $95 per hour. Typically sessions run for an hour and take place once a week.  Occasionally, reduced fees are available, when pre-service (student) teachers work under our guidance as part of the Blue Door’s mentoring program. The student intake assessment cost is currently $190 as a one-off payment on the day.