Do you have a learning need or disability that we should know about?
What do we mean by disability?
It is any physical or mental impairment that affects your ability to carry out everyday tasks. It also includes sensory impairments, medical conditions such as epilepsy, mental health difficulties and any “hidden” disabilities such as learning difficulties, including dyslexia and dyspraxia.
Why does the College want to know?
In order to ensure that:
- You are offered positive practical support at college.
- You are not treated less favourably than those who do not have a disability.
What do we mean by positive support?
Examples of positive support include:
- Help in the classroom,
- One to one sessions with the Learning Support Department,
- Ability to record relevant parts of sessions,
- Extra time in exams,
- Additional support in finding work placements,
- Consideration of your medical needs when you go on a visit organised by the college.
Who should I tell?
You should have several opportunities to tell a teacher about a
disability for example at:
- The initial interview for a College place,
- The enrolment interview at the start of the academic year,
- The induction session with your tutor,
- Any time in the academic year to any trusted teacher.
You could also do it in writing, when you fill in the Acceptance Enquiry Form to indicate that you have accepted the offer of a place at the college.
What if I don‘t want to tell someone?
You can choose whether or not you want to tell someone at the college about your disability or learning need. However, if you don’t then the College cannot cannot easily support you.
Will the information that I give be treated confidentially?
Information about your disability will be treated confidentially and the College will make every effort to ensure that any support is given in a sensitive way and does not draw attention to your disability.
Where do I go for more information on my rights related to my disability?
- Useful leaflets are available in the Learning Resources Centre.
- Visit the website for the Disability Rights Commission www.drc-gb.org