Learn About DARA

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Dysguise Diagnostics

What is DARA?

DARA (DysGuise Assessment Reports Assistant) is your one-stop reports system, designed to guide professionals through every stage of diagnostic report writing.

Developed in line with the latest SASC guidance, DARA offers a structured, intuitive workflow that reduces clerical errors and shows SASC guidance notes right where you need them (and allows you to add in your own notes). It ensures your reports are clear, compliant, and consistent. Whether you’re writing up a complex profile or a straightforward assessment, DARA streamlines the process—so you can spend less time on formatting and more time on analysis.

With DARA, you’re not just writing faster—you’re writing better.

How does DARA work?

When you log in, you will see a range of SASC report formats to choose from. Pick the format, then enter client details, scores etc. When you enter results, DARA will automatically complete Appendices with score tables, test descriptors and references.

Next to each section of the report, you will find the latest SASC guidance. Under each section, you can create your own notes to cut and paste where appropriate.

DARA has built in features that will prevent common errors, so that you end up with a professional, well-formatted and clearly set out report.

Because DARA is web-based, you can be sure that every time you open the program, you have access to the latest guidance.

What are the benefits of DARA?

  • Always up to date with the latest SASC guidance
  • Saves admin time
  • Reduces error
  • Easy to use
  • Professional output

FAQs

DARA has been designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, with input from assessors throughout the development process. Most users can start using it right away. Demonstration webinars and short videos are available here on the DARA website to guide you through specific aspects of writing reports using the tool.

DARA does not monitor or verify assessors’ qualifications.  Different reports will have different requirements. In order to produce a SASC diagnostic assessment report, you need to confirm on the cover page that you are a qualified specialist teacher and/or psychologist, holding an approved qualification, and either a current Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) Assessment Practising Certificate or that you are Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered.  There are no specific requirements at the moment for producing a Workplace Needs Assessment (WPNA) report.

Yes. DARA ensures your reports have the correct structure, headings, and information placement according to SASC standards, which supports APC compliance. However, the APC renewal process also evaluates your analysis and diagnostic decision-making, so your professional judgement remains central to the process.

No. DARA does not generate analytical content or recommendations. Instead, it handles the administrative, compliance and formatting aspects of report writing, freeing your time and mental energy so you can fully focus on your analysis.

DARA provides formatting and structure that fully conforms to the latest SASC standards. It is automatically updated whenever SASC makes changes, so every time you open DARA, you’re working with the most current guidance.

DARA complies with the latest data protection regulations. For detailed information, please see the Terms and Conditions and privacy information on the DARA website.

Yes. DARA streamlines the report-writing process, allowing you to work methodically through it. Many users find they can write more reports each month using DARA, or alternatively use the time saved for a better work/life balance.

Looking for more answers? View our FAQs Advanced Topics
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When will DARA be available?

After the final piloting stage, DARA will be available to assessors. Please keep checking our website for the latest news, or register here to be kept informed.

Register now