Paula exceeds her expectations

Paula Mason, a hearing impaired student from Longbridge recently completed her Essential Skills course in Maths and English at Bournville College. Along with the help and support of Bournville College, Paula was able to obtain her qualifications and is now looking to continue her path in education, as she looks to fulfil her ambition of working for the RSPCA.

To ensure Paula was able to get the most out of her education and reach her full potential despite her disability, Bournville College provided her with a full time interpreter to support her through her studies.  The interpreter attended the classes with Paula, acting as a liaison between Paula and the tutor as well as Paula and the students.

Paula who lives independently in a flat located near the College campus complimented Bournville College on the high levels of support that it provided her with by commenting: “The support was fantastic! I made full use of the Flexible Learning Centre which was very helpful and on the whole it made my life a lot easier. I believe Bournville College is a great college able to support students at all levels of ability. My Maths tutor Lesley Matravers and signer Martin Sanders have both been of great help to me.”

Martin Sanders a Communication Support Worker at the College who signed for Paula throughout the last year, said: “Paula is truly an inspirational person; very dedicated to her studies and a joy to work with. Despite her impairment, Paula integrated into all classes well and became a well liked student amongst others.”

Bournville College prides itself on being able to offer a wide range of additional support packages to students with disabilities and additional needs. Its Assessment and Support Team assesses, co-ordinates and monitors additional support needs for students with various needs including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning difficulties, mental health difficulties, autistic spectrum conditions, medical conditions and Specific Learning Difficulties e.g. Dyslexia.

If you feel that you may need support when you come to college, please contact the Assessment and Support Team on 0121 477 1750 or additionalsupport@bournville.ac.uk. Visit www.bournville.ac.uk/additional-support for further information.