FE additional needs case studies

Schools and colleges receive funding to make sure they can provide additional support to students with disabilities. They also have a duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students.

There may be general resources available to help you study, for example electronic study aids, materials in alternative formats, or an interpreter for deaf students. Before you start your course you will have an assessment to decide how any additional support will be provided and to make sure the course meets your needs. You may also be able to apply for funding for any specialist equipment that is not already available.

FE students cannot apply for a Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs). However other sources of financial support such as Education Maintenance Allowances (EMA), Learner Support Funds, and funding for transportation may be available to you, see our money for studying page and the Skill website for more information.

Skill, the National Bureau for Students with Disabilities, offers information and advice on all aspects of FE and student life. They also operate a free telephone helpline for other queries.

Disabled students tell it like it is:

Nadine Wood
Gateway Sixth Form College, studying A2 in Psychology, English Language and English Literature.

Nahid Dhada
Gateway Sixth Form College, studying GNVQ intermediate Art and Design, GCSE English and Immediate Maths.

Sufiyan Morawala
Gateway Sixth Form College, studying AS Level in ICT progressing to A2 next year.

Last Updated: 21-Jun-2007