HE additional needs case studies

Previous experience (eg schools, college, employment, qualifications etc)

A-Levels at school, Professional OCR/RSA typing skills and word processing qualifications from a college
Mathematics degree from university

How have I coped with my current course or option?

In terms of researching my PhD, it has been easy to cope in comparison with earlier courses, as my work is mainly done independently.  I talked with members of the department before I started my PhD, and they ensured that the desk allocated to me was suitable, and that I could access all the areas in the building which I would need to use.  I have also done some part-time teaching.

What have been the difficulties and how have I dealt with them?

The part-time teaching was more difficult, as the lecture theatres are more accessible  for wheelchair using students than for staff, so I always had to check rooms beforehand to ensure they were suitable for me to teach in, and arrange accessible equipment, namely low OHPs.  As part of my PhD, I have travelled to other universities for conferences.  This was sometimes challenging, as I travelled by train on several occasions, so I had to make sure I could access the train and then get to the venue for the conference from the station.

Who and what has helped me to succeed?

The departmental staff, and my supervisor in particular, have been the most helpful in ensuring I could fully participate in my PhD course, by helping me to make various arrangements with regard to research and teaching, and providing assistance when I wanted to attend a conference.

My parents have also helped me to attend conferences where there were particular access problems, as they can help me to get up a few steps into inaccessible buildings, for example.

I have also made use of the AccessAbility Centre during my first degree and my PhD course.  In particular, staff at the Centre helped me to make arrangements for teaching, and also helped me to check that any room I might want to use was accessible.  The staff also ensure that I receive a parking permit, so that I can drive to University and park on campus.

Other staff in the university are also helpful, such as administration staff and porters, who will help me by going upstairs in inaccessible buildings to bring to me anything I might need, or generally offering assistance.
I live in student accommodation, and I cope there because there is an en-suite accessible shower-room.  Also the cleaners and porters are very helpful – if I have a problem, I only have to ask someone and they will sort it out.

Any advice for other students thinking of progressing into FE, HE or other related options?

If you are worried about any aspect of a course or available facilities, talk to the relevant people in the institution – in general, staff will do all they can to help resolve any problems and ensure that you can participate fully in your chosen course

Last Updated: 18-Sep-2007