Learning Support and SEND

At South Devon College, we take our responsibility to support your learning very seriously. That’s why our dedicated Learning Support Team offers a range of services to assist your learning. The identification of your individual learning support needs could be the key to your success. If you have a learning difficulty or sensory impairment that has been identified in the past such as, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autism or dyscalculia, have a Statement (SEN)/ EHCP, have been in special education, or you are worried that you are not finding some learning as easy as you expected, then we can help you. During the application process you are provided with the opportunity to inform us of identified or possible support requirements. This early identification of needs will allow time for the planning of support, however support plans can be developed and reviewed throughout the course and learning programme. A member of our dedicated Learning Support Team at South Devon College will be available to meet with you and put a specific support plan together for you.

The type of support we can offer you includes:

• Assignment support
• Study skills
• Revision sessions

Specific support includes:

The Lodge

The Lodge is a provision within South Devon College at our main Paignton Campus for students with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC). The Lodge provides a calm, quiet environment where the staff assist the students in managing their unstructured times during the college day, supporting study and helping to develop their communication and social interaction skills.

The English and Maths Zone

The English and Maths Zone can provide extra 1:1 or small group support to students who find aspects of literacy or numeracy a bit more challenging.

Specialist Support

If you have a sensory impairment, we have Learning Support Assistants who are specifically trained to meet the students’ needs, including British Sign Language Communicators. If you have a physical disability we have a dedicated team of support staff who are experienced in supporting learners in wheelchairs.

Exam Support

If you have had support for your exams in the past such as a reader, scribe or extra time, or your tutors observe that you require this; our fully trained assessors can determine your eligibility and provide the support accordingly.

Assistive Technologies

We have various assistive technologies at South Devon College which enable you to access your learning. Programmes such as Microsoft Immersive Reader and Office Dictate are used and students can borrow devices from our IT Helpdesk. If you have any questions about support for students, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the team by emailing [email protected] 

Click here for more information on Torbay’s Local Offer

 Meet the team