There are plenty of options available to people living with epilepsy after secondary school, including further education and training, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment. Support services are also available, depending on your situation.
Starting further education and training usually means you will be having a lot of new experiences. You might be going into a new environment, surrounded by a wide range of different people. You might also be getting used to new learning styles and forms of assessment. This transition can be intimidating, so some people may need adjustments to help them achieve their learning goals. Everyone’s support needs will vary depending on their situation.
For some people living with epilepsy, flexible deadlines might be enough to manage the impact of their condition on their learning. But if you are living with epilepsy and a cognitive disability, you may require additional assistance when studying at University, polytechnic, or private training organisations. You might need help in the areas of planning, learning arrangements, accessibility, assistive technology or other supports.
It is worth having a chat with your doctor about what your support needs might be, and also finding out what services are available at the institution you are/will be attending. For example, Universities have dedicated Disability Liaison Officers/Disability Support Officers to assist students with a disability studying in their institution. Not all people living with epilepsy identify as having a disability. However, these staff may be able to provide you with invaluable support as you go through your learning journey. These staff can help with:
– Academic support workers (note takers, readers)
– Adaptive technology (voice activated software)
– Alternative arrangements for assessment (additional time, scribes),
– Alternative course materials
– Enrolment and campus orientation
– Communicating with lecturers and teachers
– Physical access to facilities
– Referral to other support services (counselling, health, housing, finance)
Under the law, current and prospective students with a disability have the right to education and training opportunities on the same basis as students without a disability.