Student support

We support students with Asperger syndrome who are in further and higher education. Our aim is that students' transition onto courses is smooth and that support is in place to help them complete their studies successfully. This involves working closely with students and the staff in their chosen place of study.

Support details

Support is delivered according to the needs of the student. It is flexible and might be increased at times of change or potential stress such as around exams, or after staff changes. Funding for student support can be organised through students' Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) or via their place of study.

Topics covered with students could include:

• orientation
• managing change
• disability awareness
• emotion management
• timetabling and structure
• independent learning skills.

In addition, other areas of support could include:

• assistance with work placements
• training can be provided for staff who provide learning support to people with Asperger syndrome
• Disability Equality Scheme/Disability Discrimination Act training/support
• autism awareness raising training for staff and mentors
• support with applying for the DSA
• preparing for onward transition to further study and/or employment for final year students.

The service is currently offered in Glasgow, Inverness and Aberdeen, but there are plans to provide it Scotland-wide. Our services in Inverness and Aberdeen also include a supported employment service for people with autism.

For further information, please contact:

Anna Williamson
Tel: 0141 221 8090 
Email: anna.williamson@nas.org.uk

Related resources

• University: choosing and applying
  
• University: starting at
  
• University: how to support students with Asperger syndrome
  

• The Equal Employability website
• The Routes to Employment website

• Supporting students with Asperger syndrome: suggested further reading (DOC)