Information for students with disabilities

Information about the support available to students with disabilities at Moray House.

We welcome students with disabilities

We provide a supportive environment for all our students. For those with disabilities, or those who believe they may have a disability, we offer various types of help and support, starting pre-application and continuing throughout your time with us. More information is available below, along with stories from two of our students.

Hear from students with disabilities in our School

Liam, a 2021 PGDE Biology student reflects on the Disability services available at Moray House School of Education and Sport.

Miriam began a postgraduate taught programme at Moray House School of Education and Sport not knowing that she had a disability. During her studies, she was referred to the Disability and Learning Support Service for an appointment to see if she needed extra support. When she understood that she had dyslexia, she was able to access practical support in the form of software from the university, and also felt that she wasn't "as hard on herself". 

Remembering her initial appointment with the Disability and Learning Support Service:

[We discussed how] when I was in secondary school when we had to read aloud in class I would come out in a sweat. I would make an excuse to go to the toilet or I would count down the lines. If I was number five so I'm going to read the fifth page, and I would jump ahead and scan that page.

Reflecting on her feelings prior to knowing about her dyslexia:

I had the imposter syndrome, or the intruder syndrome. I've always had that, and kind of can't quite believe I've got through the system as far as I have. I’m expecting somebody to tap me on the shoulder and say this has all been a terrible mistake and you shouldn't be here .

Reflecting on how her diagnosis has helped her, both in practical and confidence terms:

They gave me software to read articles out loud. So I would continue to read, but it was just hearing it. That seemed to mean I could retain the information if I could hear it, rather than relying on my own processing skills to read that information and the comprehension, I suppose,  it just helped.

After I found out about my dyslexia I think I wasn't as hard on myself, and I think it was actually, that realization I've done quite well, considering the difficulties that I've had. You know I'm passing this and it's OK, I know it's not because I'm stupid.

 


How do I know if I have a disability?

These are the most common disabilities which students experience at the University of Edinburgh:

  • mental health issues, such as anxiety, panic attacks and depression
  • specific learning differences, such as dyslexia
  • unseen difficulties, such as a health condition
  • deafness
  • visual impairment
  • being an autistic person
  • mobility difficulties

It is fine to discuss and ask about disability, so we can ensure you have the support you need to thrive at University.

If you have a condition that you think might affect your ability to study, attend classes or take full part in University life, but are not sure if it would constitute a disability, you should get in touch with the Disability and Learning Support Service and talk to a member of staff. They will be able to advise you and arrange an assessment if that is required. If a condition is formally identified, staff will prepare a Schedule of Adjustment (SoA).

Contact the Disability and Learning Support Services  

Help available before you apply

Online information about degrees

Our School website provides information on competence standards, time commitment, placement, physical demands and so on, to allow potential applicants with disabilities to make an informed decision about applying. If you wish to apply but are unsure about suitability, the Programme Director should be able to give you further information.

Open Days

The University hosts Open Days for both undergraduates and postgraduates. If you need adjustments, such as captioning for a live event or a BSL interpreter, you can provide that information when you book your Open Day place. Further information is available on the 'Book Your Place' page on the University's Open Day pages.

Visit the Undergraduate Open Days page

Visit the Postgraduate Open Days page (Includes PGDE)

Interviews

If the application process includes an interview, you will be sent information ahead of time about the required tasks and criteria. This should allow you to identify whether you will need any adjustments.

We strongly advise applicants to notify the School before the interview if they require any adjustments. For example, you may ask for a sighted guide to meet you at the entrance, extra time to complete tasks, an electronic notetaker, or to be in a smaller group. Interviewers will have received guidance on the Disability Equality Duty and will be well informed and supportive of applicants with disabilities. Contact the person who sent you the email about the interview. They will confirm the arrangements.

Support for students

The University's Disability and Learning Support Service (DLSS) provides study support to students with a range of disabilities, learning differences, neurodiverse and health conditions.

If you have a disability, please contact DLSS before your course starts to discuss your needs during your time at University.

Find out more about the Disability and Learning Support Services

Contact the Disability and Learning Support Services 

Support in Moray House School of Education and Sport

Student Adviser: If you have any issue or concern which is affecting your studies, your Student Adviser is the first person you should contact. You will meet them near the beginning of your studies.

Enhanced Support:  The Disability and Learning Support Service (DLSS) may ask you if you would like a named contact in the School. This person may be your Student Adviser. They keep in touch with you and DLSS regularly and offer enhanced support.

Student Experience and Support Office: Responsible for liaising with your Course Organisers and PT about your Schedule of Adjustments. 

Contact the Student Experience and Support Office

Co-ordinator of Adjustments: Responsible for ensuring that staff in the School know how to implement your Schedule of Adjustments. 

Contact Dr Andie Reynolds, Co-ordinator of Adjustments 

Course Organiser and Programme Secretary: Know about your Schedule of Adjustments and will liaise with support services. Find their details on your Learn site. 

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