The need for additional learning support may arise from a specific learning difficulty and/or disability. There may also be a need for additional learning support if you have experienced any mental health difficulties which may cause a barrier to learning.

The Additional Learning Support team build strong relationships with our students supporting them in improving their functional, social, emotional and behavioural skills. Staff can also provide support with personal care and medical needs where appropriate.

Students benefit from access to specialist resources which include:

• A sensory room.
• Independent Living facilities.
• Students on land-based courses have access to a large area of land, and specialist facilities including a large glass house and small animals.
• Practical Skills Workshop. This large well-resourced area is used to develop practical skills that enable many students to progress to Level 1.
• Catering kitchen. Students have sole access to an industry-standard catering kitchen, with regular visits from and to current practitioners in a variety of settings.
• Access to cross-college curriculum and subjects.

We can offer:

• A dedicated team to support learners with Autistic Spectrum disorder
• Foundation Studies (LLDD & PMLD) learning and learner support
• Specialist Specific Learning Difficulties Support (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia)
• Assistive technology
• Sensory curriculum
• Work placement support
• Speech and language therapy
• Deaf or hard of hearing support
• Visual impairment support
• Support for social, emotional and behavioural difficulties
• English and Maths support in small groups or one-to-one
• Support for learners on Higher Education programmes
• Counselling support
• Supported internships

The pastoral care I have seen afforded to my son is second to none. I’m filled with confidence that because of his time on this course, building his confidence and self-esteem, he now has a future and career possibilities where before there seemed none.
— Parent

Transitions Team

A referral to the Transitions team can come from school, College or parents at any time. Our Transitions team offers individually tailored transition support to meet the needs of each individual learner.

We work with students who have a variety of learning needs in a range of ways and in co-ordination with the student’s school. We liaise with support staff in schools and parents and carers to gain as much information about the student’s support needs as possible.

There are a range of opportunities for students to familiarise themselves with their future learning environment.

These can include:

• Staff from College visiting schools
• Taster days
• Class visits
• Link courses
• Individual student visits
• Coffee and information mornings for parents and carers
• Open evenings
• Supporting students through the interview process where necessary

For more information about Additional Learning Support at the College please email learning.support@btc.ac.uk