University and DSA

[Turquoise1999]

Hi everyone,

This year I am completing my PGCE in primary education at university. I wanted to know if anyone here has applied for DSA Support and if so what was provided.

I wasn't fully aware o DSA in my undergraduate course so I didn't apply, but from some advice i though i should apply for this year. Also what evidence needs to be submitted.

Thanks

Maymunah

[zebedee01]

Everybody is assessed individually.It really is worth doing though!

In my case I was entitled to a desk and chair, laptop and software, paid taxis, plus extra time in exams etc. Can’t remember what else. I didn’t actually claim it though in the end, but I should have done as it would have been a massive help, and if I go back to uni I will definitely be claiming it x

[Turquoise1999 in reply to zebedee01]

Yeah l, I feel if it is there and it can support you why not. I’m going to apply and send over my evidence

Thanks for replying

[Hidden]

Hi,Definitely worth applying for DSA. My youngest daughter applied last year after it was suggested by her uni. She suffers from various auto immune diseases and hyper-mobility, which results in her suffering from fatigue, difficulty walking any distance, difficulty concentrating etc. When at her worst, she sadly ends up in bed.

She completed the application, stating what she suffered from and most importantly how it affects her. She attached a letter from her consultant which confirmed her diagnosis.

She then had an ‘assessment’ which was on zoom due to Covid and the assessor suggested various items which might be helpful- ergonomic chair, standing desk, bed desk, printer, a substantial allowance towards printing or paper and ink, specialist software, around a third off a new (light) laptop.

The printer, paper and ink are so very helpful as she can print everything for free and review with a pencil rather than staring at a screen. The chair has really helped her deal with the pain she suffers.

We were amazed that so much help was available- she says she feels guilty claiming any of it- but apparently the funding is there, but few eligible students realise they can claim.

[Turquoise1999 in reply to Hidden]

I think definitely, whatever can support you the best, is worth it even if it’s a small appliance

Thanks for replying

[Ingrid1234]

Yes it is.

Try this website for DSA:

gov.uk/disabled-students-al...

Regards

[Apspain]

So . As a sponsored degree it is a sticky one...especially when it comes to medical or teaching and if you dive in and have a further look you will see why. I specifically stated that prior to starting your degree you must be fully fit and well in a ll aspects. So I would imagine some flags popping up here is you were to apply for dsa on your type of degree. From my understanding the disibility law does not apply in here because you have to fit and well and reliable to do your role mentally and physically. Now, please clarify everything I have said as I read it very recently when looking reliable sources for related to teaching but I do not want to mislead you up the garden path in case I have misinterpreted anything and would ask you to double check facts form reliable sources.

[Turquoise1999 in reply to Apspain]

Yeah, I agreeI was a bit confused on whether I will be eligible.

However a lot of teaching staff have disabilities, so even if something like a assistive chair chair in class can help.

I have had health checks, which ensure you can do the course

Thanks for replying

[Hidden]

Just reading a reply that warns about raising health issues in certain courses. My daughter is studying primary teaching- she spoke to the uni about her health before applying and they have been very supportive. There are a number of other students on her course with health issues too, so I would hope it wouldn’t be a problem.

[Apspain in reply to Hidden]

Is she doing a sponsored degree though?

[Turquoise1999 in reply to Hidden]

I have spoken to my uni and they are very helpful in providing support specifically for me