Learning support and reasonable adjustments
Information about the support available for learners with disabilities, learning difficulties or additional needs to help them access and participate in learning.
The Adult Learning Service is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where all learners can participate and achieve their potential.
If you have a disability, learning difficulty, neurodivergence, medical condition, accessibility requirement or any other support need, let us know as early as possible. This helps us identify any reasonable adjustments that may support your learning and ensure you can access your course effectively.
Support may be available both during your course and, where applicable, for exams or assessments.
Examples of support
Depending on your individual needs, support may include:
- accessible learning materials, such as large print, coloured paper, audio formats or materials provided in advance
- assistive technology and specialist equipment
- advice on accessing learning venues and facilities
- adapted furniture or equipment
- hearing support equipment
- rest breaks during learning or assessments
- readers, scribes or alternative assessment arrangements, where permitted
- flexible teaching approaches and learning activities
In addition to learning support, we can help you access information, advice and guidance on a range of issues that may affect your learning, including wellbeing, attendance, digital inclusion and progression. Where appropriate, we can also connect you with external organisations and specialist services for further support.
Safety and accessibility
If you have a disability, medical condition or accessibility requirement that may affect your safety while attending your course, let your tutor know as soon as possible.
We will work with you to understand your needs and, where appropriate, put arrangements in place to help keep you safe whilst learning. This may include creating a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) to support you in leaving the building safely if required.
All our learning venues are risk assessed and we welcome feedback from learners about their experiences of accessing and using our facilities.
Working together
To help us understand and support your needs, we may ask for relevant evidence, such as an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), medical evidence or specialist reports.
Any support arrangements will be discussed with you and based, wherever possible, on your usual way of working. You will remain at the centre of decisions about your support. We will work with you to identify practical adjustments that help you participate confidently and successfully in learning.
The Adult Learning Service cannot diagnose learning difficulties or disabilities, or make referrals for formal diagnosis. However, we can help identify practical strategies, provide reasonable adjustments where appropriate, and signpost you to relevant services and sources of support.