Print this pageStudent Support
The HE Learning Advisor
The HE Learning Advisor can provide advice and guidance on a wide range of academic issues such as study skills, time management etc.
Facilities available to students with learning difficulties or with disabilities at the University Centre Yeovil are listed below. If you have a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia or any disability, you are strongly advised to contact Jane Woodcock, the HE Learning Advisor, before you start your course. She will discuss your needs with you and ensure that suitable support is in place when you start your course.
Jane can be contacted on 01935 845482 or emailed via jane.woodcock@yeovil.ac.uk.
Deaf or Hearing Impared Students
Induction Loop: There are a limited number of portable loop systems. Further loops could be provided via the Disabled Student's Allowance (DSA).
Note Takers: We can arrange to provide note takers; payment for these would normally be via the DSA.
British Sign Language Interpreters: Can be provided, subject to adequate notice and payment for these would normally be covered by the DSA.
Visually Impared Students
Specialised IT software: We can provide accessibility options within Microsoft Windows which will enlarge print. Text Help Read and Write, a screen reader, is available on all our open access computers.
Students with mobility difficulties
Wheelchair access to most areas of the University Centre Yeovil is available. An access guide to wheelchair access to the main Yeovil College site is available on request.
Students with dyslexia
Specialist tutors: Can be provided, subject to adequate notice. Payment for these would normally be covered by the DSA.
Information Technology Specialist Software
Specialist software, such as Read and Write, Co-writer is available. Training/advice in its use is available. Assistance to students with own computer problems/additional computer training may also be available at a cost (may be paid through the DSA). Please contact Jane Woodcock to discuss.
Disabled Student's Allowance (DSA)
There is extra help available in the form of Disabled Student's Allowances (DSAs) for people with disabilities, mental health conditions (for example depression or anxiety) or specific learning conditions (for example Dyslexia or Dyspraxia). Students need to apply through Student Finance England: go to www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance. This allowance may assist students to purchase appropriate equipment, specialist tutorial support, etc. In most cases, medical evidence or a `diagnostic assessment' (from an Educational Psychologist or Specialist Teacher after your 16th birthday) is necessary to obtain DSAs.
A booklet called Bridging the Gap explains the DSA in detail and can also be obtained from www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance. For the guide in different formats such as braille, large print and audio, email:brailleandlargefonts@slc.co.uk with your name, address and which format you require.
Further information can be obtained from the HE Learning Advisor or from "SkillS" - the organisation for students with learning difficulties or disabilities via email: info@skill.org.uk or by visiting the website www.skill.org.uk.
Please note
International or students from EU countries other than the United Kingdom are NOT eligible for support from the DSA. Part time postgraduate students are eligible to apply for the DSA, which will be awarded on a pro-rata basis.
Additionally, we offer a range of personal support services to students such as counselling or chaplaincy. These services can be contacted through your tutor, the Student Information Office or reception on the Main Yeovil College campus. The service is confidential.
