Degrees of Success

Many students at ESPA College attend General Further Education Colleges to achieve specific qualifications including A-Levels, GNVQ, GCSEs and Diplomas.  We already have an excellent reputation of providing the autism specific support they need to succeed in these environments. Some of our students have gone onto study at university where they have been able to fulfil their academic potential, grow in confidence and self-esteem and prepare themselves for work.

To someone on the autism spectrum going to University can be a daunting prospect. Having the right support from experienced and knowledgeable staff that have an in-depth understanding of ASC can make a huge difference to people succeeding academically and socially.

Our University Mentoring Service can provide discrete, specialised autism specific support to students inside and outside of the classroom. This service is tailored to the individual student and can include mentoring, guidance and note-taking (where appropriate). Support packages delivered by ESPA can range from just an hour per week (guidance and support) up to 25-30 hours per week, where students have had a mentor with them throughout their University timetable. We can also provide more intensive support at specific times such as Fresher’s Week. ESPA’s Domiciliary Agency can also provide social support to people in higher education which may include supporting them in their Halls of Residence. This can be funded through Direct Payments or Personal Budgets.

We are currently working with eight students across Sunderland, Newcastle and Teesside Universities. We have now successfully supported three students who have graduated. Between them they have achieved a 2:2 BSC Hons Degree in Biomedical Sciences, a 2:1 BA Hons Degree in Art & Design and a 1st class Hons Degree in Media and Journalism. With our support many other ex-ESPA College students are also currently achieving well.

If you are interested in ESPA’s mentoring and support whilst at University, you should speak to the Student Support Service at your chosen University. To receive our support you will need to be assessed as eligible for the DSA (Disabled Students Allowance).  The University will establish the level of support you require.