Learning Support - Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am thinking of applying to the College and I have a disability, what do I need to do?

FE students only
Learning support for students on FE courses is arranged directly by the college.  You should contact the Learning Support Team and arrange an appointment to discuss your needs and concerns. We can advise you on support and how to obtain it. We can also help liaise with your course coordinator where necessary.

Please note that all students requesting additional support due to disability (including dyslexia) must supply relevant and appropriate evidence to the college with diagnosis and details of specific difficulties before support can be offered.

HE students only
If you are a student on a HE course you can access support by applying for Disabled Student Allowance from your local funding body (education library board or equivalent).  DSA will help pay for some of the costs you may incur in attending a course at the NWRC which are a direct result of a disability, medical condition or specific learning difficulty.  The Learning Support Centre can advise on the DSA application process. Early Application is essential.

Application forms can be downloaded at:

http://www.studentfinanceni.co.uk/portal/page?_pageid=54,1268397&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

2. I have a disability/specific learning difficulty; do I have to tell the College?

No you do not have to disclose – however, we would strongly recommend that you do so. It means that the College will be able to understand what your support needs are and how we can support you.

3. What support can the College offer?

North West Regional College can offer a wide range of support, subject to an assessment by a member of the Learning Support Team. Possible support areas include mobility, speech, vision, hearing, dyslexia and mental health.

4. Will I have to pay for this support?

No, if the Learning Support Team determine you are eligible for support the College will provide this support.

5.  At school I got extra time in my exams; will this carry on at College?

Alternative exam arrangements such as extra time, a scribe and the use of a computer can be put in place. You will need to book an appointment with the Learning Support Centre to discuss your needs, and bring a copy of your supporting evidence with you.

6. I need an extension to the submission date for a piece of work due to my disability/specific learning difficulty.

You need to speak to your course coordinator, giving them as much notice as possible, explaining the situation. They may request some supporting evidence, if they don't already hold it. They will then make a decision about whether or not they can offer an extension.

7. How do I apply for Learning Support?

You can request support in any of the following ways:

• Complete the Learning Support Section on NWRC Enrolment.
• Contact your Course Co-ordinator who will complete a SLDD Referral Form.
• Complete the Self-Referral Form in the Learning Support Leaflet.

You will then be invited for an appointment to the Learning Support Centre to discuss your difficulties. You will be asked to bring with you supporting evidence of your difficulty, disability or medical condition before any support can be arranged.

8.    Where is the Learning Support Centre?

NWRC has two Inclusive Learning Centres, one based in the Tower Building, Strand Road Campus and another based in Limavady.  Strabane students should contact the Learning Support Centre through Library staff.

Contacts
Derry/Londonderry Campus       (028) 71276024
Limavady Campus                       (028)71 278772

Email: anne.g.bradley@nwrc.ac.uk
            tara.oconnor@nwrc.ac.uk
            learning.support@nwrc.ac.uk