Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I don’t consider myself to have a disability, but I think I might need some support. Can I still access college support?
A: The college is committed to supporting all students experiencing difficulties. We recommend that you call the Assessment and Support Team to discuss your individual circumstances.
Q: What does the Assessment & Support Team do?
A: The Assessment and Support Team is part of the Student Support service area. We assess, co-ordinate and monitor additional support needs for students with various support needs including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning difficulties, mental health difficulties, autistic spectrum conditions, medical conditions and Specific Learning Difficulties e.g. Dyslexia.
Q: What is an Assessment?
A: An assessment is where you have the opportunity to discuss your support needs and to plan the level of support that might be needed. When you have been assessed your support can then be arranged. It would be very useful if you could bring any relevant information with you such as previous dyslexia report, special educational needs statement, Connexions reports and details of any other support that you already receive.
Q: What support will I get and who will provide it?
A: This will depend on the outcome of your assessment and your individual needs. Support can be provided by your personal tutor, additional support tutors, student support assistants, support co-ordinator or specialist teachers.
Q: What if I don’t want information on my support needs passed on to others?
A: In order for you to receive appropriate support we encourage you to inform your tutors of your support needs. Your support co-ordinator will help you talk to your tutors about your individual needs. If you choose not to have any information passed on then this might limit the amount of support you could receive.
Q: What if I am unhappy with the support?
A: Your support will be reviewed regularly to ensure that you are happy and that it is helping you to progress on your course. If you have any concerns you can speak to your support co-ordinator. If you are still unhappy then you can contact the Assessment and Support Manager who will discuss the concerns with you.
Q: Will I get help with my exams?
A: You may be entitled to exam concessions such as extra time, separate room, reader or scribe. If this is the case you will need to provide evidence of your support need. For example this could be a medical letter or a previous dyslexia assessment. This information is needed so that we can apply for your concessions from the examination boards.
Q: What if I need transport to get to college?
A: If you are under 19 years of age and had transport to and from school, your local education authority should continue to pay for your transport to and from college. If you do not automatically get help with transport, you can apply to the college’s Learner Support Fund. The panel will allocate assistance according to individual circumstances. If you want to apply for help with transport cost, you can pick up a Learner Support Fund application form from the Information and Advice Centre.
Q: Does the college have a policy on disability?
A: You can access the College’s Single Equality Scheme document here.
Q: Can I park at the College?
A: There are a limited number of spaces reserved for blue badge holders. We recommend that you contact the Assessment and Support Team prior to visiting the College to find out further details.
If you have any other questions please call the Assessment and Support Team on 0121 477 1750 or via minicom 1800101214771750. You can also contact us via email at additionalsupport@bournville.ac.uk.
