a day ago
West Lothian student urges others with disabilities to 'go for it' at college or university
Aaron has cerebral palsy, autism, oral motor ataxia, cerebral visual impairment and other issues
An inspiring West Lothian College student with disabilities is sharing his education journey story to encourage others to 'go for it' and achieve whatever they want to.
Going onto further or higher education, such as college, university, or an apprenticeship, comes with unique challenges for students with a disability, but a growing network of support is available
Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) offers tailored funding and inclusive college or university resources designed to help disabled students thrive during their studies.
Aaron, a multi-disabled HNC Social Services student at West Lothian College, has shared his route to further education.
'I have cerebral palsy, autism, oral motor ataxia, cerebral visual impairment, and a host of other small, little, niggly disabilities that make up the legend that is me,' said Aaron.
'I am a glass half full kind of guy, and like to say that everything kind of works, just not very well.
'I actually started college on an Assisted Programme, which, in a nutshell, teaches people with disabilities vital life skills and is a key stepping stone in considering what we want to do with our future.
'I've guest lectured for Napier University's learning disability nursing course on my lived experience with nurses, and social care in general. This motivated me to learn more about Health and Social Care, as I wanted to understand more about the policies and practices that affect my everyday life.'
West Lothian College's Student Support Team work with students across the college in all centres, providing help with all learning needs.
Kate Fleming, Health and Social Care Lecturer at the college, said: 'Aaron has grown so much during his time at college. He is a driven student who overcomes any barriers he faces with his learning.
'It has been a pleasure to teach Aaron. He approaches every task with a positive attitude and a real desire to learn and improve. We're proud of everything he's achieved, and we're excited to see where his journey takes him as he progresses at the college.'
Aaron added: 'My disabilities make daily college life a bit of a challenge when it comes to class lectures, work placements and accessing areas on campus, but I have had support since day one, and the level of attention and consideration that the college has put in to help me achieve my goals of studying has been amazing.
'I get help several times a week from Student Support who assist me with everything from scribe support, open and closed book assessments, guidance and time management planning. I honestly have had the best experience and feel valued as a student.'
Aaron receives the SAAS Disabled Students' Allowance, a specialised support package that eligible students receive throughout their college and university studies at HNC, HND and degree level.
The allowance supports students who have extra costs because of their disability.
'It's quite simply the case that without the extra support, I could not achieve my goals,' Aaron admits. 'The extra funding from SAAS means I can pay for a scribe to help with my coursework assessments, have the technology needed to help me with note taking in lectures, and additional student support to be there for me when it comes to my assessments and exams.'
Aaron has a message of encouragement for any young person with a disability considering their options when they finish school.
He said: 'Go for it! The sky is the limit, and the only thing holding you back is you.'
To hear more about how the team at West Lothian College can help, email supportlearning@
