Additional Learning Support
Brooklands Technical College is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every learner has the opportunity to succeed. Our Additional Learning Support (ALS) team works with learners to understand their individual needs and provide support that promotes independence, confidence and achievement throughout their time at college. Learners who have a neurodivergence, disability, or health conditions are encouraged to let us know so we can provide the right support. This can be shared at the point of application, during enrolment, or at any stage throughout the academic year.
What support do we offer?
- In-class Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
- Discrete one-to-one GCSE English and maths support sessions
- Access arrangements, reasonable adjustments and special considerations in exams
- Read, Write, Gold assistive technology designed for users with dyslexia, learning difficulties, or English as a Second Language (ESL) to assist with reading and writing
- Adapted documents and materials, including large print, coloured paper and overlays
- Reader pens (handheld scanning devices that read printed text aloud at the touch of a button), designed for people with dyslexia, SpLD, and other reading difficulties
How can you get the support you need?
Any queries or questions regarding ALS support should be emailed to: als@brooklands.ac.uk
Alternatively call us on 01932 558 943 to discuss enquiries with a member of the team.
Students can drop by the ALS Office at our Weybridge campus to speak directly to a member of the team.
You can also:
- Complete an application form and answer the questions regarding support needs
- Tell us about your needs during enrolment
- Speak to your personal tutor asking them to refer you to ALS
You will then be contacted by one of the ALS team to discuss your needs in more detail and determine what services you may require.
Exam Access Arrangements
Have you previously received any Exam Access Arrangements (EAA) at school?
This could include things like extra time, help with reading or writing, or other forms of support during exams.
In many cases, these arrangements can continue when you enrol at Brooklands Technical College.
What you need to do:
Ahead of enrolment request copies of all of the documentation to evidence that you were entitled to exams access arrangements from your school or previous education provider. When doing so, please ask them to provide the following (where available):
- Form 8 or Form 9 (fully completed and in line with current regulations)
- Confirmation from Access Arrangements Online (AAO)
- Centre-delegated evidence, where appropriate
- A copy of the assessor’s certificate, for the person who carried out the assessment, where appropriate
- Any other information, relevant to EAA held on file
We understand that this may seem like a lot to request, so please don’t worry if you’re unsure, your previous school/provider should be familiar with these documents and able to assist you.
These can be emailed to EAA@brooklands.ac.uk or brought with you when you attend enrolment.
When you enrol, you’ll be asked about any exam access arrangements (EAA) you’ve had before (like extra time, a reader, breaks, etc.). You should answer honestly and accurately so they can make sure you get the right support if you qualify.
If you have any questions about Exam Access Arrangements, please email EAA@brooklands.ac.uk
FAQs for learners with an EHCP
Yes. If you have an EHCP, you should name the College at your annual review so you can start the transition process. Your SEND case worker at your local authority must then amend your EHCP and consult the College before the end of March for a September start. We may then also talk to your school or previous Post 16 College to ensure we can meet your needs and agree your placement.
When completing your online application, please select ‘Yes’ when asked if you have an EHCP. This ensures our support teams are notified early.
No. You will need to name the College at your annual review so you can start the transition process.
The college will make reasonable endeavours to provide the appropriate support to help you achieve on your course and meet the outcomes in your EHCP.
1:1 support is available if this is outlined within Section F of your EHCP. Please note that not all students with an EHCP would be entitled to 1:1 support.
For new students, Annual Reviews take place during the Spring Term. This timing allows our staff to get to know you well enough to provide meaningful feedback on your progress and outcomes. You will receive an email invitation to a meeting held via Microsoft Teams. If you would prefer to meet in person, please inform us a week before the meeting. We invite all relevant stakeholders (such as your local authority, support workers and teachers) to join. If someone can’t make it, we’ll make sure to collect their written feedback so it’s included in your review.
For EHCP related queries, please email EHCP@brooklands.ac.uk ALS and EHCP Leads Sahar Mahmood Darren Willoughby
If your EHCP includes Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) and/or Occupational Therapy (OT) provision, this support is arranged and funded by your Local Authority. The Surrey Post-16 SALT Team supports learners at the College who have a Surrey EHCP. If this provision is required as you transition into post-16 education, a referral will be made to ensure continuity of support.
Useful Links
SEND Surrey, Local Offer
There are many services throughout the county that can offer support to parents and people aged 25 and under with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). To find out more about services in Surrey click here.
If you are interested in applying to join one of our SEND & Transition pathways, please visit our SEND & Transition programme page.
Brooklands Technical College
Weybridge Campus
Heath Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8TT
Brooklands Technical College
Ashford Campus
Stanwell Road, Ashford TW15 3DU
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