Student Support

ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT (ALS)

Before starting any course all learners undertake a rigorous initial assessment to begin the process of identifying indicators for ALS including:

• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• ADHD/ADD
• Literacy Support
• Numeracy Support

If needed, learners are then referred to an ALS specialist.

If there is any indication of dyslexia or a current Statement of Education is not available, a specialist Dyslexia assessment may be undertaken. Our specialists are employed full time by the College and work closely with all teams, enabling complete integration of ALS support into any programme of learning.

Our specialists hold the following qualifications:

• OCR Diploma in Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia)
• University of Cambridge Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling and Groupwork
• Assessment Practicing Certificate, Professional Association of Teachers of Specific Learning Difficulties (PATOSS): linked to AMBDA (Associate Membership of the British Dyslexia Association).

The ALS tutor will structure a detailed individual learning plan, agreed by the learner and other tutors involved, to make best use of the time, resources and to ensure it closely follows the occupational scheme of work.

Most ALS will take place on a one-to-one basis as this is where the majority of learners feel most comfortable and confident receiving support. However, the ALS tutor will be available to give support in group situations if preferred and appropriate.

Progress checks are made to ensure the learner is meeting their set targets and achieving in line with other learners. This process takes place between the learner, ALS tutor and occupational area tutors. All records are kept according to the Data Protection regulations, and in line with EFA and SFA audit requirements.

As learners progress through their qualification, attainment is frequently monitored and programmes are adjusted accordingly. Retention, success and achievement are measured and compared across college, regional and national benchmarks. Monthly reports are written and discussed with tutor and apprenticeship officer where appropriate.

When surveyed, learners have commented that the additional support has made a huge difference in their learning and allowed them to progress when they thought they may not be able.

COUNSELLING

The Building Crafts College recognises the importance of being able to seek confidential and professional help in a safe environment. Learners often make many personal decisions and solve problems through discussions with friends and family. However there are times when it is right to seek confidential, professional help. This could be due to emotional difficulties, substance abuse, confidence issues, stress, anxiety, low mood, depression, etc. In these instances, the College can support a learner through these problems.

The majority of counselling work is undertaken over a short term period although long term is available if needed. All information is kept in the strictest confidence, unless there is a concern for safety of the learner and/or others, when the designated Safeguarding Officer will be consulted.

The Building Crafts College counsellor is experienced and accredited to the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy. To ensure best practice, the counsellor takes part in monthly supervision phone calls with a qualified supervisor, accredited to BACP. This is confidential and anonymous to re-assure that what is discussed will not go further than the counsellor.