FE additional needs case studies

Previous Schools:

Ash Field School
9 GCSEs, grades C to F

Ash Field School is special school for disabled students. I have a disability and I was at Ash Field for 14 years. It is both a primary and secondary school all in one.

How I have coped with my current course or option?

I have coped very well with my course itself and the workload. If I didn’t understand the teacher I would ask then for help and they would come over and explain to me what I need to do.

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

When I first came to Gateway College, I had an interview. In that interview I got asked what help I would need. I then came to the college for a day to look around and talk to the teachers who would be teaching me.

I am quite low down in my wheelchair and needed some of the tables in the Art rooms adjusting to my level.

For exams, I have special arrangements such as extra time and a rise and fall table.

Who and what has helped me to succeed?

In the interview, I also got asked what help I would need from the support worker.

In some of my Art classes I have to work with clay and metal, these are the main lessons where I need a support worker. This is mainly to help me with things that require strength.

I also have some Art lessons in the main building; I need help using the lift to get to my lesson.

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

They shouldn’t be daunted about going onto doing FE of HE courses as there is much help available.

Last Updated: 14-Jun-2007