Information
Further education and training in
Scotland: guidance for disabled people
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Further education and training in Scotland:
guidance for disabled people
Contents
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Introduction
What qualifications might I get?
Further education options
Vocational training programmes
Disability-related support
Financial information
Other services available in colleges
Where to get advice and support
Useful publications
Useful contacts
Page
1
3
12
16
21
27
31
32
35
38
1. Introduction
When making decisions about learning opportunities, you may want
to ask when and where to apply, whether any extra support is
available if you have a disability, and how you will fund your
studies. This booklet will help you think about your options in
further education and training after you have finished school, and
will also be useful if you are older and considering going back into
education.
What is further education and training?
Further education is usually for people aged 16 years or over, and
either takes place in colleges, the workplace or a combination of
both. Occasionally, people under 16 can take further education
courses at college as part of their school-based learning (see Page
10 for further details).
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Further-education level courses in college are mainly vocational
(work-related), rather than degree-level courses, and include:
 work-related courses, such as Scottish Vocational
Qualifications (SVQs)
 general educational courses such as Intermediate courses or
Highers (National Qualifcations)
 link courses for school pupils
 basic skills courses such as literacy and numeracy
 English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
 courses that do not lead to a formal qualification, such as
independent living skills courses
 Access courses, which allow people who do not hold formal
qualifications to go on to higher education
 evening classes, vocational and non-vocational
As well as class-based courses, there are also a range of
vocational training programmes in Scotland. These usually involve
on-the-job training in the workplace and, in some cases, off-the-job
training in a college. Training programmes are also available for
people in employment wishing to develop or update certain skills, or
for those about to start work.
Training programmes allow you to improve your job skills while
providing you with practical work experience and in many cases,
formal qualifications. These include:
 Modern Apprenticeships
 Skillseekers
 Get Ready for Work
 Training for Work
 pre-employment training
 training for employees
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2. What qualifications might I get?
There are many different types of qualifications available in Scottish
colleges, ranging from basic starter courses to general educational
courses to more specialised work-related qualifications. Many
colleges also offer higher education courses such as Higher
National Diplomas and degree courses (for details of higher
education qualifications in colleges or universities please see the
Skill booklet Higher education in Scotland: guidance for disabled
people). If you are not sure which level you want to study at, you
might want to speak to the college admissions department to get
more details before you apply.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements will vary depending on the nature and level of
the course. Although some courses ask for standard entry
qualifications, such as Standard Grades or intermediate
qualifications, formal qualifications are not required for entry to all
college programmes.
If you are returning to study after a break in education or you do not
have the standard entry qualifications, you may be able to take
Access or introductory programmes to provide you with the
background for further study in your chosen subject.
Qualifications explained
The main qualifications available in Scottish colleges are set out
below:
National Qualifications (NQs)
National Qualifications in Scotland include Standard Grades
(normally taken in schools), National Units and National Courses.
They cover many different subject to suit everyone’s interests and
skills.
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National Units can be taken as qualifications in their own right, or
built up into National Courses. So for example, if you complete
three National Units in ‘Business Management’, ‘Administration’
and ‘Travel’, as well as passing an exam, you could gain a National
Course award in Business. You can also build up National Units
and National Courses into ‘cluster’ awards such as Scottish Group
Awards or National Certificates. These can be particularly useful
for people who have been out of full-time education for a while as
they allow you to build up Units at your own pace to gain an award.
National Units and Courses in colleges and cover a wide range of
subjects and are available at the following levels:
 Access qualifications
- Level 1 is suitable for students who require considerable
support with their learning
- Level 2 is suitable for students with mild support needs
- Level 3 is of a similar level to a Foundation level Standard
Grade
Learning at Access levels 1, 2 and 3 is assessed by the
college and does not involve sitting an exam. Groups of units
can lead to ‘cluster awards’. These consist of a number or
units in a particular area, such as computing or Home
Economics.
 Intermediate qualifications
These qualifications are available at Level 1 and 2 and are
suitable for students who have completed Standard Grades,
Access level 3, or those who wish to take up a new subject.
For some students, Intermediate 2 is a stepping stone to taking
a Higher.
4
Intermediate qualifications can be studied at school or college you do not necessarily have to take Standard Grades first.
 Highers
Highers are aimed at students who have passed subjects at
Credit level Standard Grade, or who have successfully
completed a subject at Intermediate level 2. Adults wishing to
study for Highers at college may not need previous
qualifications. Highers are normally needed for entry into
university or college to study for degree or Higher National
Certificate or Diploma courses (HNCs or HNDs).
 Advanced Higher
These are aimed at students who have passed Highers, and
they are usually taken in sixth year at school or in college.
They extend the skills and knowledge gained at Higher level
and are additional qualifications that are useful for entry into
higher education or the workplace.
Scottish Vocational Qualifications
Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) are work-related
(vocational) qualifications and are aimed at giving you the skills and
knowledge you will need in employment. There are SVQs which
apply to most types of jobs, and they are available at college or in
the workplace, or by a mix of college attendance and workplace
training. SVQs are intended to guarantee your ability to do a
particular job.
SVQs are available at 5 levels, each made up of a certain number
of Units:
Level 1 – foundation or unskilled work
Level 2 – semi-skilled / a broad range of skills and responsibilities
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Level 3 – complex / technical / skilled and / or supervisory work
Level 4 – managerial / specialist
Level 5 – professional / senior managerial
Each Unit defines one aspect of a job or work-role, and says what it
is to be competent in that aspect of the job. Each Unit can also be
taken as an individual award. Some colleges may also offer
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).
Other qualifications
The national qualifications above are awarded by the Scottish
Qualifications Authority, the main awarding body in Scotland.
However, many colleges also offer the qualifications of other bodies
such as City and Guilds, EAL and many other awarding bodies.
 Scottish Progression Awards (SPAs)
SPAs are work-related qualifications which allow you to
experience the world of work while still being able to get
support from a college or training provider. They are designed
to provide you with basic skills training which will be attractive
to employers and you can build up a number of SPAs to allow
you to work towards a full SVQ qualification. They are linked
to specific jobs, and can be useful for people who are
unemployed wishing to enter a specific occupation or for those
who are already in work.
 Access to university courses
Some colleges also offer access to degree courses in
partnership with one or more universities. Most access
courses are run at colleges and enable those who do not hold
formal qualifications to go on to higher education. Most
courses are one year full-time, and can guarantee you a place
at college or university if you complete the programme
6
successfully. For entry to an access course, you should apply
direct to the college you would like to attend.
Higher education level qualifications in colleges
For details of higher education level qualifications, such as Higher
National Diplomas (HNDs) or degree courses, please see the Skill
booklet Higher education in Scotland: guidance for disabled people.
Developing your qualifications
The following table is based on the Scottish Credit and
Qualifications Framework (SCQF), and shows the different levels of
further education qualifications you might receive at a Scottish
college. This was developed to help learners understand how
different learning programmes relate to each other and how they
can progress their qualifications.
The numbers beside each qualification allow you to compare
qualifications with each other. For example, the table shows that a
credit level Standard Grade, an Intermediate 2 qualification and an
SVQ Level 2 are all at the same level – Level 5. In this table,
anything which takes place in a college from levels 1 to 6 is classed
as further education. Anything above this is classed as higher
education.
The table also gives a rough indication of some of the courses you
might be able to take, depending on the qualifications you currently
have. For example, if you left school with Standard Grades, you
might be able to take Intermediate courses at college, or SVQ
courses at levels 2 or 3.
Please note that these are only general guidelines, and you should
check with your chosen college about the exact entry requirements
for the course you want to take.
7
Developing your qualifications
(This section is a written description of the flowchart on page 12
which readers using a screen reader may find useful.)
The flowchart provides information on the main qualifications
available in Scotland and the level at which they are placed on the
Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), ranging from
levels 1 to 12. It categorises these qualifications into those which
can be taken at school, college, university and in the workplace.
Qualifications which can be taken in schools include Standard
Grades, Highers and Advanced Highers. Qualifications which can
be taken in colleges include Access levels 1 to 3, Intermediate
levels 1 and 2, Highers, HNCs and HNDs. Degrees, Master’s and
Doctorate level courses are usually taken in universities, while
SVQs can be taken at college or in the workplace (or by a mix of
both college and workplace attendance).
For each qualification, there is a suggested progression route for
qualifications which you might want to consider as the next step in
your learning path.
Qualifications at SCQF level 1:
This includes Access level 1 courses. After completion of this
course, you might want to progress to Access levels 2 (SCQF level
2) and 3 (SCQF level 3).
Qualifications at SCQF level 2:
This includes Access level 2 courses. Upon completion, you might
want to progress to Access level 3 (SCQF level 3).
Qualifications at SCQF level 3:
8
This includes Access level 3 courses and foundation level Standard
Grades. After completion of an Access level 3 course, you might
want to progress on to an Intermediate level 1 course (SCQF level
4). After completion of a foundation level Standard Grade, you
might want to progress to a general level Standard Grade (SCQF
level 4) or an Intermediate level 1 course (SCQF level 4).
Qualifications at SCQF level 4:
There are three qualifications available at this level, including
general level Standard Grades, Intermediate level 1 courses, and
SVQ level 1 courses. Upon completion, you might want to move up
to a higher level in that particular qualification (ie. credit level
Standard Grades, Intermediate level 2, and SVQ level 2).
Qualifications at SCQF level 5:
There are 3 qualifications available at this level, including credit
level Standard Grades, Intermediate level 2, and SVQ level 2. After
completion of a credit level Standard Grade or an Intermediate level
2 course, you might want to progress to Highers (SCQF level 6) at
either school or college. If you have completed an SVQ level 2 you
might want to progress to SVQ level 3 (SCQF level 6).
Qualifications at SCQF level 6:
Level 6 includes Highers and SVQ level 3. After successfully
completing Highers, you could consider several options, including:
 progression to Advanced Highers (SCQF level 7)
 progression to an HNC course (SCQF level 7)
 progression to an HND course (SCQF level 8)
 progression to a degree course (SCQF levels 9 and 10)
After completion of an SVQ level 3 course, you might want to
progress to SVQ level 4 (SCQF level 8).
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Qualifications at SCQF level 7:
There are two qualifications available at SCQF level 7, including
Advanced Highers and HNCs. The suggested progression routes
for Advanced Highers are similar to Highers (i.e. HNDs or degrees).
After successful completion of an HNC, you might want to progress
to an HND (SCQF level 8) or a degree level course (SCQF levels 9
and 10).
Qualifications at SCQF level 8:
This includes HNDs and SVQ level 4. After completing an HND,
you might want to progress to a degree (SCQF levels 9 and 10).
After successful completion of an SVQ level 4 course, you might
want to progress to SVQ level 5 (SCQF level 11).
Qualifications at SCQF levels 9 and 10:
Level 9 includes Ordinary degrees and level 10 includes Honours
degrees. You can apply to either Ordinary or Honours level in your
chosen course, however entrance to Honours level is usually
dependent on your performance in your first two years at university.
If you apply for an Ordinary level degree, you might want to
progress on to Honours if you achieve the required grades. On
completion of an Honours degree, you might want to progress to
postgraduate study, such as a Master’s level course (SCQF level
11) or a Doctorate (SCQF level 12).
Qualifications at SCQF levels 11 and 12:
Level 11 includes Master’s courses (postgraduate level), and SVQ
level 5. Level 12 includes Doctorate level qualifications
(postgraduate level). After completing a Master’s course, you might
want to progress to Doctorate level.
10
SCHOOL
L degree
COLLEGE
UNIVERSITY
degree
WORKPLACE
& COLLEGES
Postgraduate:
12
Doctorate
SVQs:
11
Master’s
11
SVQ L5
Degrees:
Higher
Nationals:
Highers:
7
Advanced
8
HND
7
HNC
10
Honours
degree
9
Ordinary
degree
8
SVQ L4
Highers
Intermediate:
6
6
Highers
6
SVQ L3
Standard
Grades:
5
Credit
5
Intermediate 2
5
SVQ L2
4
General
4
Intermediate 1
4
SVQ L1
Introductory:
3
Foundation
No qualifcations
3
Access 3
2
Access 2
1
Access 1
11
When you have gained a qualification, you might want to progress
on to the next level. As you progress you may be able to move
from one area of learning in the above table to another, such as
progressing from an SVQ in Wordprocessing to an SGA in Office
Administration.
Progression to university
Successful completion of an HNC programme may allow you to
progress to the second year of an HND programme or Year 1 of
university. Certain HND programmes may allow you to enter Year
2, and in certain cases Year 3, of a degree programme (depending
on each university’s entrance requirements). This can be
particularly beneficial for people who start an HND course and feel
they have the potential to progress further.
Many colleges have specific links with local universities which allow
you to do this. Your careers adviser or course tutor should be able
to give you further advice on progression opportunities.
3. Further education options
You can study a further education course in various different
places, including colleges, specialist colleges and occasionally in
schools. You can also study at home, which is called open or
distance learning.
School
You may be able to stay at your current school if it accepts students
beyond age 16. You can take academic courses such as Highers,
or you might wish to take a work-based course such as an SVQ.
You could also consider changing to a different school for a better
course or better support. Your school should be able to advise you
about what is best.
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If you are leaving your school, your careers adviser or Careers
Scotland Key Worker can help you find a new place to learn or
train.
Gradual transition opportunities
Many young people may find it easier to start a college course by
making a gradual transition from school to college. Most schools
have opportunities for pupils to take part in college courses while
they are still at school. This may involve attending college for one
or more days a week until they are ready to attend college on a fullor part-time basis.
Some colleges also offer transition and summer courses that can
help you get used to the college campus and a new style of
learning, as well as being helpful for getting support put in place
before you start.
If you are older, you may be able to take evening classes before
you apply to do a full-time course at college to allow you to try out
the college and its facilities beforehand.
Further education colleges
You may find your local college offers a wider range of courses
than is available at your school. These might include:
 entry-level courses (eg. access levels 1 to 3)
 academic courses (eg. Intermediate course, Highers and
Advanced Highers)
 work-based courses (eg. an SVQ in plumbing)
 Access courses to allow you to go on to higher education
 general courses to prepare you for adult life (eg. Life Skills).
These courses may not always lead to a qualification, but can
be particularly useful for people with learning difficulties who
need more support to gain independence skills.
13
You can study full-time or part-time, or you may be able to take
some courses as evening classes.
Specialist colleges
If your support needs cannot be met at a local school or college,
you may want to think about going to a specialist college. They are
likely to have more experience of supporting students with a range
of disabilities. There are no residential specialist colleges in
Scotland, but you may be able to apply to a residential college
elsewhere in the UK.
You can find information on specialist residential colleges in the
COPE Directory: Compendium of post-16 education and training in
residential establishments for young people with special needs (see
Page 35 for details). Your local careers adviser or Careers
Scotland office should have a copy, and they should be able to help
you find the best option. You can also contact the Association of
National Specialist Colleges for information about their colleges
(see Page 34). You may find these directories in your local library
as well.
Open or distance learning
If you do not want to attend a course at a set time or place, you
could think about studying at home or at work instead. This is
called open learning and courses vary in the way they are set up
and how you study. For some courses you will be sent a list of
books and worksheets to work through, or you might use additional
study methods like the internet, videos, computer software or
watching TV programmes.
Occasionally, attendance at college is necessary for practical work
or supervised assessment, but this can usually be arranged flexibly.
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You will also have the support of a college tutor who can provide
guidance and support on a regular basis.
For more information, please refer to Skill’s booklet Opportunities in
open or distance learning.
Choosing a course
You may want to study a course because you are particularly
interested in it, or you may want to think about which courses are
most likely to get you the job you want. Sometimes people think
that they cannot study certain subjects because of their disability.
This is most often not the case.
You might find it helpful to arrange a meeting with the course tutor
or careers adviser and/or the disability adviser. You might also
want to speak to Learndirect Scotland who hold information on the
whole range of courses available in Scotland (contact details on
Page 38).
How do I apply to college?
Once you decide which course you would like to take, you can
either contact the college to get an application form or, in some
cases, download it from the college website. You might find it
useful to visit the college after you apply to talk to college staff
about the support you might need when you start the course.
The application form may ask if you have a disability or additional
support needs. You do not have to fill this in, but if you do the
college will be able to meet your needs more effectively. All
information given to the college about your disability or support
needs will be kept private and will not be passed on to anyone else
unless you give your permission. It is against the law for colleges
to discriminate against you because you have a disability.
15
When should I apply?
Once you have decided which course you want to take, you should
apply to the college as early as possible. This will give the college
time to meet your support needs when you start college, as well as
increasing your chances of getting accepted on to the course you
want.
4. Vocational training programmes
There are a number of training programmes available in Scotland to
help you get into a specific job or improve your job skills. Most
involve work-based training or placements as well as support from
training providers. Some are aimed at specific age groups, while
others are open to anyone.
Depending on what programme you are on, you might get paid as
you are working. Some also allow you to study for a qualification at
the same time (which may involve spending part of your time at
college). You can find out more about training programmes from
Careers Scotland and the Jobcentre Plus (please refer to the
‘useful contacts’ section).
Get Ready for Work
Who can apply?
Get Ready for Work is aimed at young people (aged 16 to 18) who
are not yet ready to go into work.
What does it offer?
The programme aims to give you whatever you need to prepare for
the world of work, such as teaching you new skills and building your
self-confidence.
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Get Ready for Work can offer a number of benefits such as:
 developing your skills in reading, writing, number work, using a
computer and working with others – the skills that employers
usually look for
 developing the broad skills needed to perform a particular job,
eg. using hand tools, understanding filing systems, timekeeping and health and safety requirements
 letting you try out different types of work by doing work tasters
or placements which will give you experience of a real working
environment
 building your confidence and job-seeking skills, eg. interview
techniques, and help with application forms or CVs
At the end of the scheme, some training providers will give you the
opportunity to achieve a qualification in your chosen skill as well as
helping you get a job.
What about money?
You do not need to pay anything to take part in this scheme. You
will receive a training allowance and you may also get help with
your travel expenses.
Are you interested?
If you are interested in the scheme you should speak to a Careers
Scotland adviser, or your school careers adviser if you are still at
school. You and your careers adviser will then draw up an Action
Plan to identify your needs and suggest ways to meet them. Your
careers adviser will then be able to identify which Get Ready for
Work programme can best help you.
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Training for Work
Who can apply?
Training for Work provides training support for adults who have
been unemployed for at least 6 months and are actively looking for
work.
What does it offer?
The programme allows trainees to go on placements and access
formal training in a wide variety of skills and occupations. In many
cases, trainees move into a full-time job. Trainees receive support
and training from a wide range of training providers, as well as onthe-job experience through work placements.
What about money?
You do not need to pay for your training, but you will be paid a
training allowance which will be the same as your weekly benefits
plus £10 a week. If you are offered a job at the end of the scheme
you will be paid the full rate for the job.
Are you interested?
If you are interested in this scheme you should contact your local
Jobcentre.
Skillseekers
Who can apply?
Skillseekers is a training programme open to school leavers and
young people (usually 16 to 18 year olds, but in some cases people
up to the age of 25 can take part if they need higher skills for a job).
You can apply to Skillseekers if you are either in work and looking
to develop your skills, or if you are not working and you want to
train for a job through a work placement.
18
What does it offer?
Skillseekers allows you to receive training from your employer, or a
training company if you are not in work, while working towards a
recognised work-related qualification. In most cases, you will get a
Vocational Qualification (either an SVQ or an NVQ). These are
assessed practically and are not based on your ability to pass
exams. Vocational qualifications are accepted by industry
throughout the country. The level of qualification depends on the
type of job you are doing. Typically, Skillseekers are learning skills
at Level 2 (semi-skilled).
You can use Skillseekers with any employer, but only if they are
willing to train you to at least level 2 of a vocational qualification.
After you have completed your Skillseekers programme, you might
want to progress to a Modern Apprenticeship (see below for more
details) which allows you to get a Level 3 vocational qualification.
What about money?
The cost of your training will be covered. In addition you will
receive a weekly wage or training allowance.
Are you interested?
If you would like to take part in a Skill Scotland programme, you
should contact your nearest Careers Scotland office. Careers
Scotland staff can also put you in touch with a training company if
you are not in work, who will arrange a placement with a suitable
employer and organise your training.
19
Modern Apprenticeships
Who can apply?
Modern Apprenticeships offer those aged over 16 paid employment
combined with the opportunity to train for jobs in industrial or
commercial occupations, at levels such as craft, technician and
management.
What does it offer?
Apprentices are able to gain skills and qualifications (SVQ level 3 or
above) that will help to start a new career without having to study
full-time. Training programmes are available across a wide range
of industries, such as craft bakery, business administration,
electrical installation, or motor sports for example. Modern
Apprenticeships can also be used as the basis for training for older
employees.
You will be given the chance to develop expertise and knowledge
through on-the-job assessment as gaining vital skills such as
teamwork and problem solving. Many Modern Apprentices also
attend colleges or training centres to study the theory related to
their chosen occupation.
What about money?
Your Local Enterprise Company (part of Scottish Enterprise),
supported by your employer, will pay your training fees. As a
Modern Apprentice, you will have full employee status from the
start of your training and you will receive a wage from your
employer.
Are you interested?
If you are interested in taking up a Modern Apprenticeship you
should contact your careers adviser or guidance teacher if you are
20
still at school, or contact your local Careers Scotland centre for
further details. Or, for more specific information on Modern
Apprenticeships in your local area, contact your Local Enterprise
Company in the Scottish Enterprise or Highlands and Islands
Enterprise (contact details for Scottish Enterprise on Page 38).
You can also get further information at the following website:
www.modernapprenticeships.com
5. Disability-related support
It is important to find a course that interests you, and it is also
important that your college or training provider offers you the extra
support you need because of your disability or learning difficulty.
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) says that all education and
training providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to
ensure a disabled person can access education. This might
include, for example, providing course materials in electronic
formats if you are visually impaired, or one-to-one help in the
classroom if you have a learning difficulty.
For further information on your rights under the DDA, please see
Skill’s information booklet Understanding the Disability
Discrimination Act: information for disabled students.
Assessing your needs
Colleges
If you decide to go to college, there are lots of different kinds of
support available if you have a disability. To find out what support
you might need it is a good idea to speak to the college support
staff before you arrive at college. You will be able to talk about
your course, the support you have used before and any new
21
support that the college might be able to provide. For a list of
student support advisers in Scottish colleges, please contact the
Skill Scotland Information Service or refer to our website at
http://www.skill.org.uk/into_hefe/into_fe.asp.
If necessary, the college might carry out a formal assessment of
your needs to make sure you get the support you need to help you
study. This will either take place at the college or at a separate
Access Centre (the Access Centres are based in Aberdeen,
Motherwell and Edinburgh - see contact details on Page 36).
If you have come straight from school to college, your education
authority (with your permission) should have passed on any
information to the college about your particular needs. Under the
Additional Support for Learning (Scotland) Act 2004, your local
education authority has a duty to ensure that your school starts
planning what support you will need about one year before you
expect to leave school. For further information about the needs
assessment process, please see the Skill booklet Scotland:
Opportunities at 16.
If you are older, it would also be a good idea to make contact with
the college a few months before you start to ensure that they are
aware of your needs, as well as allowing you to familiarise yourself
with the college.
Training programmes
If you are thinking of starting a training programme, either the
college or the employer will be responsible for meeting your support
needs, depending on which training programme you choose. For
more information, you should contact your careers adviser at
school or college, or a Careers Scotland careers adviser.
What kind of support is available?
22
School
As long as you remain in school, your education authority must
ensure you receive the support you need. The support you have
had up until now should still be available to you, whether you
continue studying at the same school or move to a different school.
Colleges
All colleges have a duty to meet the needs of all students who have
a disability or other additional support needs. There are two ways
in which you can receive support from your college:
(i)
you can either take part in a mainstream course (which
include disabled and non-disabled students), where the
college will give you the support you need to succeed on
your course. This might include extra teaching for
students with dyslexia, an interpreter for deaf students,
flexible timetables, or materials in alternative formats such
as Braille or computer software; or
(ii)
you can take part in courses which are specifically
designed to meet the needs of students with learning
difficulties or students who have complex needs. These
programmes have fewer students than a mainstream class
and all the students on the course will need additional
support to help their learning. This might include Basic
Skills courses which aim to develop your numeracy and
literacy skills, or Independent Living Skills courses which
prepare students for adult life.
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Disability or student support advisers at colleges arrange disability
support within the college. You should contact this person to
discuss any individual support needs before you start your course.
Specialist colleges
Specialist further education colleges provide education for disabled
people only. Some specialist colleges cater for students with any
type of impairment, while others provide mainly for those with a
particular impairment. You may have access to helpful equipment
or supported learning at a specialist college that you might not be
able to access at your local college.
There are no residential specialist colleges in Scotland. However,
you may be able to get funding for a placement in a specialist
college elsewhere in the UK through a bursary from your local
authority. If you want to attend a specialist college outside
Scotland, you should ask your social work department for an
assessment of your needs that takes into account any help you
need in order to access appropriate education.
Work-based learning or training programmes
If you are taking part in work-based learning (such as an SVQ) or
training, you should be given enough support to enable you to take
part in and successfully complete the training. This will either be
arranged by a college student support adviser (if the college runs
your training programme), or your employer or training provider. As
each programme differs, you should contact the provider to find out
who will be responsible for arranging your support.
Who provides the support I need at college?
If you are disabled you may need different kinds of support from
different agencies while you are at college. So, it is important to be
aware of who is responsible for meeting your needs.
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 Educational needs
Colleges are responsible for meeting your educational needs.
This might include learning materials in alternative formats, a
sign language interpreter, or computer software for example.
They can also help with study skills, specialised equipment
training or arranging for extra time in exams if you need this
because of your disability. In some cases, you may receive an
allowance to pay for some of your own disability-related costs
– see Page 27 for further details.
 Personal care support
The main source of help for personal care support for your
daily living needs is your local social work department. This
might include help using the toilet facilities, someone to help
you travel to college, or help to prepare a meal. All disabled
people have the right to an assessment of their needs. If you
think you might need personal care support you should apply
to your local social work department for an assessment as
early as possible.
 Healthcare needs
In many cases, your needs assessment by the social work
department may identify a need for healthcare support in
addition to your personal care support. If this is the case, your
your local NHS board will be responsible for providing that
support, such as someone to give you medication at college.
 Careers advice
Your college careers adviser or a Careers Scotland careers
adviser can help you work out which education, training or
employment options suit you best.
25
They can also give you information and advice about the
support available after you leave college if you have additional
support needs, such as going into employment, training or
higher education.
 Transport needs
You may have specific transport requirements, such as
travelling by taxi, because of the nature of your disability. If
you receive the motability part of Disability Living Allowance
(DLA), either funding or a car, you will be expected to use this
to pay for your transport costs. If you do not receive this
allowance, and you need specialist transport to get to and from
the college, this will be discussed by the college, your social
work department and NHS board. These agencies should
decide between them who will pay for your transport if this is
necessary.
 Other support needs
You may find that you need help when you are moving from
school to college, especially if you have to deal with various
different agencies. If you have a disability or other additional
support needs, you may be able to receive the support of a
Careers Scotland key worker. Key workers can support you
while you are moving from school to college by speaking to the
different agencies involved and making sure that support is
paid for and put in place before you begin your course.
Promoting disability equality
From December 2006, all public bodies (including colleges and
universities) have been subject to a Disability Equality Duty (DED)
as part of the Disability Discrimination Act. This means that all
colleges and universities have a duty to promote equality of
opportunity for disabled people, taking into account the impact of
26
their activities on disabled people. Rather than focusing on
individual disabled people’s rights, the DED is about improving
public bodies’ policies and services as a whole for disabled people.
In addition, certain listed public bodies are also required to produce
a Disability Equality Scheme every three years. All colleges and
universities are covered by this duty, and the schemes will need to
show how the organisation has involved disabled people in the
production of their scheme. They will also need to show how they
have assessed the impact of their activities on disability equality.
For example, if a college plans to introduce a new computer
system, it will need to think about things like accessibility and any
other way in which the new computer system might affect disabled
people before they introduce it.
For further information about the DED, please see the following
Disability Rights Commission website:
www.drc-gb.org/disabilityequalityduty
6. Financial information
It is important to think about your finances before you enrol on a
course to make sure that you can afford to go to college. There are
various types of funding available depending on what type of
course you are doing and your personal circumstances.
The information in this section is intended to be used as a general
guide - for up-to-date information on funding, including rates and
eligibility criteria, please refer to Skill Scotland’s booklet Helping
you meet the costs of learning: funding for disabled students – see
Page 33 for further details (updated each year). You can also get
information and advice from your careers adviser or local college.
27
The following information refers to students taking further education
level courses at college.
Tuition fees
If you are taking a full-time course at college, you do not need to
pay tuition fees (as long as you meet the country of residence
conditions).
If you are taking a part-time course, you may have to pay tuition
fees. However, you do not need to pay fees if:
 you are taking part in a course which is specifically for people
with learning difficulties or disabilities; or
 you receive one of the following welfare benefits: Disability
Living Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Incapacity Benefit,
Severe Disablement Allowance, or Attendance Allowance; or
 anyone in your family (only people you live with) receives
Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Pension Credit, Housing
Benefit, or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance; or
 you are a registered job-seeker; or
 you have a low family income; or
 you are an asylum seeker, or the husband / wife or child of an
asylum seeker; or
 you are living in a children’s home or foster home.
Living costs
You might be able to get help towards your living costs in the form
of a Bursary and / or an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
from the college – but only if you are studying full-time. The
amount you could get depends on your own and your family’s
circumstances.
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If you are studying part-time, bursary grants are not normally
available, but this is at the college’s discretion. If you do get
financial support for living costs, the amount given would be
proportionate to the hours you attend college each week.
Funding for disability-related costs
Disabled students who have extra costs arising from their disability
while at college (either full- or part-time) can apply for an Additional
Support Needs for Learning Allowance. This allowance is not
income assessed, and the college decides the amount that you can
receive. This can be used to pay for disability-related study or
travel costs. For example, you may need to buy additional software
for a computer, you may need Braille paper, or have extra
photocopying charges.
It is important to note that some types of study support and
equipment will be provided directly by the college without you
having to apply for any allowance, so it is always best to speak to
college support staff before applying.
Other allowances
There are various other allowances from colleges which you may
be eligible to apply for. These include:
 study costs allowance, eg. essential texts, compulsory study
trips, etc.
 childcare costs
 dependent’s allowance: if you have financial, care or legal
responsibility for an adult
 travel expenses allowance
 hardship funds: for students with particular financial difficulties
or emergency needs
Welfare benefits
29
As a disabled person you may receive certain welfare benefits. If
you have any general enquiries about benefits or how to apply for
them, you should contact the Jobcentre Plus (see Page 38 for
details) or your local benefits office.
You need to be aware of how studying will affect your benefits
before you start the course. You must inform your local Jobcentre
Plus or your local benefits office of any major change in your
circumstances as soon as it happens.
Benefits which may be affected by studying
It is important to note that you cannot continue to claim many
benefits if you are studying full-time (unless you meet certain
conditions – please see the Skill Scotland funding booklet for more
details). If you are studying part-time you may be able to continue
to receive certain benefits, such as Jobseekers Allowance, Income
Support, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Carers
Allowance.
Benefits which are not directly affected by studying
As Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is based on your day-to-day
care and mobility costs, your entitlement to DLA should not be
affected if you decide to start studying.
If you 19 or over, there is no rule that says you are not able to
receive Incapacity Benefit while you are studying full- or part-time.
However, once the Jobcentre Plus or local benefits office has been
told you are studying or are planning to study, they may decide that
you are no longer ‘incapable of work’. Obviously, this is not
automatically the case. Many people are able to do courses of
education but are not able to work. So although education may
trigger a review of your claim, it cannot in itself be used to decide
that you are capable of work. Incapacity Benefit can only be
30
withdrawn if you do not pass a test of incapacity. For more
information, please see Skill’s information booklet Studying and
claiming benefits as incapable of work.
7. Other services available in colleges
As well as thinking about your financial situation, you might also
need to be aware of what other support is available if you decide to
go to college, such as childcare or study skills support. Please note
that each college is likely to offer different services, so you should
check with the college you wish to attend to find out what they can
offer.
Childcare
Some colleges may be able to contribute towards the cost of
childcare if you meet their eligibility criteria – this will depend on
your individual circumstances. This might include helping you pay
for a childminder, afterschool care or a nursery place. Alternatively,
some colleges have their own childcare facilities which you can use
if you are a registered student (full- or part-time).
Study skills support
You may find that there are certain skills you need to improve on in
order to make the most of your time at college, particularly if you
have been out of education for a while. Most colleges offer study
skills support such as help with reading and writing, working with
numbers, improving your memory and concentration, computer
skills, or improving your handwriting.
Some colleges may also offer specialist support services such as
adult literacy, using assistive technology, or subject-specific
support. This may be added to any support you already get
because of your disability or learning difficulty.
Accommodation
31
A few colleges may have their own accommodation in the form of
halls of residence. If they do not, most colleges will be able to
provide you with advice about accommodation matters, such as
financial advice or lists of approved accommodation in the local
area.
Students Associations
Many colleges will have a Students Association which are run by
students for the benefit of students. Students Associations can
offer services such as social and recreational activities, advice and
support, and representation if things go wrong. If you become a
member of the National Union of Students (NUS), you will be able
to get substantial discounts on many products and services.
Getting involved in your students association will also give you the
chance to work with college managers to shape college policies,
and the opportunity to influence decisions about the running of the
college.
Guidance and welfare
Most colleges have trained staff members who can provide advice
and guidance on a range of matters, such as course guidance,
careers advice, or advice on re-training. You might also be able to
arrange a confidential appointment with a welfare officer to discuss
financial issues, personal matters or other issues.
8. Where to get advice and support
College prospectuses and disability information
Most colleges have a prospectus which gives details about the
college and its courses. They may also have a Disability Statement
or guide which gives information about the college’s provision for
32
disabled students. You can ask your college to send you this
information. If your specific needs are not included in this guide,
this does not mean the college cannot support them. All colleges
have a staff member who is responsible for disabled students, so it
is best to speak to them about your individual needs.
College visits
It is very important to visit the college(s) where you are considering
studying. You should arrange to meet with the disability or learning
support advisor. They can discuss with you the flexible methods of
study, equipment available to help you study, accessibility issues
and adjustments the college can make for you.
Finding a training opportunity
To help you find a training opportunity which is suitable for you, you
might want to speak to a careers adviser in your school or your
local Careers Scotland centre. Or, you can search online by using
Scottish Enterprise’s Training Suppliers Directory at
www.scottishtrainingdirectories.co.uk.
This online guide will help you search for training programmes
across Scotland. You can either search by course or qualification
title, by subject area or by a specific training programme.
Careers services
From S2 onwards you may need independent information and
advice on your future work or learning. Every young person has
access to a careers adviser at school, or you can also access
advice and support from your local Careers Scotland centre.
Careers Scotland services are available to people of all ages, and
advisers can be reached in schools, colleges or local centres.
33
Careers Scotland also employ specialist advisers who can provide
additional support for people with disabilities.
Many young people with additional support needs or disabilities find
the support of a Careers Scotland Key Worker helpful when they
are thinking about future education, employment or training
opportunities. They can also deal with other organisations on your
behalf, such as social work departments, health boards or colleges.
Key Workers and careers advisers will be able to advise you about
different jobs available and the type of training or course required
for the job of your choice. They should also be able to tell you
about local courses in schools and colleges and direct you to your
local careers library.
Voluntary organisations
There are various voluntary organisations who can offer advice and
support about further education and training if you have a disability.
Skill Scotland’s Information Service (contact details on front page)
can provide information and advice on a range of issues, including:
 arranging additional support in education, employment or
training
 the type of support that is available
 funding and welfare benefits
 disabled people’s rights
 the roles and responsibilities of different agencies
 where to go for further information
In addition, LEAD Scotland (contact details on Page 38) can offer
transition support into college, provide a buddy, or volunteer
support if you want to do flexible learning.
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9. Useful Publications
Skill information booklets
Skill produces a range of information booklets, including:
 Scotland: Opportunities at 16
 Opportunities in open and distance learning
 Understanding the Disability Discrimination Act: information for
disabled students
 Making a complaint (Scotland)
 Funding from charitable trusts
 Improving access to the physical environment
 Adjustments for disabled students
 Assistive technology: sources of help and information
 Income Support for disabled students
 Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit for disabled students
 Studying and claiming benefits as ‘incapable of work’
 Tax Credits for disabled students
 Organisations offering advice and services to disabled people
Disabled students or potential students can request up to five free
booklets. There is a charge of £2.50 per booklet for professionals.
All booklets are available to download free as A4 sheets from our
website www.skill.org.uk/info/infosheets.asp
Skill Scotland / Scottish Executive funding booklet
Skill Scotland has jointly produced a booklet with the Scottish
Executive (free of charge):
• Helping you meet the costs of learning: Funding for disabled
students (updated each year).
35
This booklet is published by the Scottish Executive, and is available
free from Skill Scotland and Blackwell’s Books. It is also available
on the Scottish Executive website at:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/08/18093051/0
Skill Publications

Guide to the Education: Additional Support for Learning
(Scotland) Act 2004 – Transition from School (£15.00)
Into Series £2.50 each for students and £6.50 each for
professionals









Into Architecture
Into Art
Into Law
Into Medicine
Into Nursing and Midwifery
Into Science and Engineering
Into Teaching
Into Volunteering
Into Work Experience
To order a publication, go to our online Bookshop at
www.skill.org.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the Information
Service on 0800 328 5050.
Association of National Specialist Colleges Directory
Published by NATSPEC. For a copy of the directory contact
Kevin O’Brien, Chief Executive, 39 Sanders Road, Quorn,
Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 8JN
Tel: 01509 554 357
Email: Kevin.obrien43@ntlworld.com
36
Website: www.natspec.org.uk/directory.php
A searchable version of the directory is available on their website.
COPE Directory: Compendium of post-16 education and
training in residential establishments for young people with
special needs
Published by lifetime Careers (Wiltshire). Available at a charge
from Lifetime Publishing, Mill House, Stallard Street, Trowbridge,
Wiltshire BA14 8HH
Tel: 01225 716 023 Fax: 01225 716 025
Email: sales@lifetime-publishing.co.uk
Website: www.lcw.uk.com/publications.asp
Disability Rights Handbook. A guide to rights, benefits and
services for all people with disabilities and their families
Updated annually and published by the Disability Alliance,
Universal House, 88-94 Wentworth Street, London E1 7SA
Tel/textphone: 020 7247 8776 Fax: 020 7247 8765
Email: office.da@dial.pipex.com
Website: www.disabilityalliance.org
NB: The telephone line is open 10 am – 4 pm, Monday to Friday,
but is not an advice line. The publication can be ordered by
downloading the order form from the website and attaching to
email.
Schools for Special Needs – A complete guide
Published by Gabbitas Educational Consultants, Carrington House,
126-130 Regent Street, London W1B 5EE
Tel: 020 7734 0161 Fax: 020 7437 1764
Email: admin@gabbitas.co.uk
Website: www.gabbitas.co.uk
37
This guide lists independent, non-maintained and state-maintained
special schools and colleges, plus independent mainstream
schools with special provisions. A searchable version of the
Independent Schools guide combined with the Schools for Special
Needs guide is available on the www.gabbitas.net website.
10. Useful Contacts
Access Centres
Aberdeen College
Gallowgate Centre
Gallowgate
Aberdeen
AB25 1BN
Tel: 01224 612 164
Motherwell College
Dalzell Drive
Motherwell
ML1 2DD
Tel: 01698 232 552
Stevenson College
Bankhead Avenue
Edinburgh
EH11 4DE
Tel: 0131 535 4600
Careers Scotland
38
Website: www.careers-scotland.org.uk
For information on how to become a modern apprentice in
Scotland. Hold details of local Careers Scotland centres.
To find your nearest Careers Scotland office, please call 0845 8
502 502.
Direct Government
 Website for disabled people and further education:
www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeople/EducationAndTraining/Furth
erEducation/fs/en
 Website for disabled people and employment/work schemes:
www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeople/Employment/fs/en
Disability Rights Commission
DRC Helpline, Freepost MID 02164, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37
9HY
Tel: 08457 622 633
Text: 08457 622 644
E-mail: enquiry@drc-gb.org
Website: www.drc.org.uk
Hot courses
Website: www.hotcourses.com
Search for non-degree courses.
ISEA (Scotland)
164 High Street, Dalkeith, Midlothian EH22 1AY
Tel: 0131 454 0096 Fax: 0131 454 0144
E-mail: isea@isea.org.uk Website: www.isea.org.uk
Information and advice on provisions for pupils with additional
support needs, particularly where adequate disability support has
not been provided.
Jobcentre Plus
39
To find your local jobcentre visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk.
Disability Employment Advisors (DEAs) are based at your local
Jobcentre Plus.
LearnDirect Scotland
Tel/textphone: 0808 100 900
E-mail: info@learndirectscotland.com
Website: www.learndirectscotland.com
They have a database of courses offered in the UK and provide
information about learning, careers, funding, qualifications, CVs.
LEAD Scotland
Queen Margaret University College
Clerwood Terrace
Edinburgh
EH12 8TS
Website: www.lead.org.uk
South region – Tel: 0131 317 3439
West region – Tel: 0141 221 3097
North region – Tel: 01463 715 602
Please note, LEAD’s contact details may change. Please refer to
website for up-to-date information: www.lead.org.uk.
Scottish Enterprise
Tel: 0845 607 8787
Website: www.scottish-enterprise.com
Social Work Departments
Social Work Departments are part of the local council and their
contact details can be found in your telephone book (listed under
40
the council name) or by contacting your local library or Citizens
Advice Bureau.
There are many other organisations that can give specialist advice
about specific disabilities. Contact the Skill Scotland Information
Service for details of other useful organisations.
41
For further information on the issues discussed within this booklet
or on other issues around post-16 education, training or
employment for disabled people, contact the Skill Scotland
Information Service at:
Tel/Text: 0800 328 5050
(Monday to Thursday 1.30 – 4.30pm)
Website: www.skill.org.uk
E-mail: admin@skillscotland.org.uk
April 2007
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