Activate Learning Reading College has published their Local Offer providing information on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

At Reading College, we do our best to ensure that our students go further.

Whether starting your career, planning a career change or career progression, we will equip you with the employability skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace.

Whichever course you choose you will find that learning here is a shared experience. You will learn in collaboration with your tutors and peers using the latest technology.

Learning won’t just take place in the classroom; you will learn in our industry standard facilities, links with employers as part of work experience and opportunities for off-site excursions  Most importantly learning here is fun and directly relevant to your chosen industry.

We have created a friendly and vibrant community at the Reading College to ensure that students work hard, but also enjoy their time here.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Provision 

Why choose us?

We are fully committed to widening participation and supporting learners with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities.

Learners have access to individual support and specialist help where needed (one to one support, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists and physiotherapists) - depending on site location.

Our staff are highly experienced and we work closely with you, your family/carers and the other professionals involved in your life to ensure you have the support and structure you need to be successful.

In 2018, Activate Learning were graded Outstanding by Ofsted for our supported learning provision, who said that

"Leaders and managers have high expectations of learners and respond swiftly to need. Managers support staff well to make sure that learners’ transition into college is a very positive experience. Teachers support learners very well to develop their confidence and their social, personal and life skills through well-planned activities."

We have continued investment into the development of our supported learning facilities across our college sites, including new ASC centre, newly refurbished sensory room, classrooms, and our Award-Winning Learning Companies.

Supporting SEND Provision

We are experienced in helping students with a wide range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities which include chronic fatigue syndrome, autistic spectrum disorders such as Asperger Syndrome, ADHD, PMLD, mobility impairments, visual impairments, speech impairments. long term medical conditions, mental health difficulties and more. 

We provide:

• advice and information on disability support and reasonable adjustments at the college
• individual support plans
• access arrangements in exams
• specialist equipment
• support workers e.g. note-takers, communication support workers for deaf students, mentors
• liaison with academic department staff
• assistance with diagnostic and needs assessment and Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) applications

Our courses vary – from gaining independent living skills to preparing for employment through work placements or working in our Award-Winning Learning Companies. Please see our website and brochure for our Lifeskills courses on offer

We are always available to talk, so please contact us if you would like to discuss any support needs. We are here to help!

SEND courses are for learners aged 16-25 year olds

We offer personal care and equipment such as a hoist. Toileting assistance - changing facilities with fully trained staff.