Additional Learning Support

We value and respect each learner and make every effort to identify and meet their needs. We want our Learners to succeed and aim to help each one learn in a way which is best for them. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all and are working to achieve that goal.

Student Support Entitlement

The Learning Support Service is available to all students at all levels and aims to help them achieve success in their education and careers. This includes support for:

• Learners with Specific Learning Difficulties and/ or disabilities
• Learners with literacy , numeracy, or language needs

How to get Learning Support

It is easy to make an appointment with learning support:

• Telephone 01625 410000 ext 547
• Drop in and ask Customer Services to make an appointment with Learning Support
• Tick the box on your course application form
• Ask to see Learning Support when you attend an interview

We promise you will get

• A confidential assessment of your individual needs which can include:
  • Individual interview
  • Initial assessment of your literacy and numeracy skills
  • Assessment for dyslexia and other learning difficulties
  • Assessment of language needs

• A suggested Learner Support Plan to meet your needs which may include:
  • Adaptive equipment and technology
  • Note taking or material adapting
  • Communication or Signing
  • Having a reader or Scribe
  • Special Examination arrangements
  • Access to specialist support from external agencies
  • Small group teaching by specialist tutors
  • One to one teaching by specialist teachers
  • Learning facilitators in classes and workshops
  • One to one mentor support
  • Regular review of your Learner Plan
  • Regular review of access in college buildings

Support for HE learners

All HE learners who require additional help whilst studying at College must apply for the Disabled Students Allowance through the Student Finance England website. This needs to be done as soon as possible as it can take up to 12 weeks for approval.

An assessment of need will be completed via the LEA through Access Summit. There will be a charge for this and learners can apply to the Access to Learning Fund (ALF) for assistance with the cost.
Once the assessment is completed and a copy of the written support plan given to the Learning Support Department within College, support will then be put in place. The Learning Support Department will invoice the LEA/Student Finance England direct for all the support they provide. Any equipment required will be paid for by the LEA/Student Finance England but needs to be purchased by the Learner who will then provide receipt evidence to the LEA.