How to help students with special needs find the right university

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a counsellor is the increasing number of students with special needs (such as ADD, ASD or ADHD) and the inadequate support provided to them.

While some schools offer student support or special education programmes, many do not. This leads to a significant gap in resources and in attention to these students’ needs. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach – and is imperative.

Students with special educational needs: the potential to excel

Students with special educational needs often possess the potential to excel academically – but they require appropriate accommodations to thrive. The lack of resources and support in many schools means that these students’ academic performance frequently does not reflect their true capabilities. This discrepancy can severely impact students’ self-confidence and sense of achievement.

By the time they reach high school, many of these students may have lost a realistic understanding of their abilities, believing they are unworthy of attending good universities. Moreover, even when high school support is available, there is lingering concern about whether these students will receive the same level of assistance in university, how this support will be provided, and by which schools.

Building early relationships with parents

Establishing a relationship with parents early on is crucial. It helps them understand the significance of accommodating their child's learning difficulties, not just for academic improvement but for social integration, self-awareness and confidence-building.

Begin by having regular meetings with parents to discuss their child's progress and the importance of support. Providing resources and literature on the benefits of early accommodation can also be helpful.

Engage parents in the process by explaining how tailored support can significantly enhance their child’s overall development. Early communication fosters trust and helps parents advocate for their child’s needs at school and at home.

Networking with university admissions officers

Understanding the level of support universities provide to students with special needs is essential for ensuring a smooth transition from high school to higher education.

During networking events, ask detailed questions about the learning and exam support available at their institutions. Creating a database of universities with strong support systems can guide students and parents in making informed decisions. This information can be used during counselling sessions to help students select universities that are well equipped to meet their needs.

Highlighting universities with robust support services can also alleviate parents’ concerns and build confidence in the student’s future academic journey.

Making early contact with university support services

Proactively engaging with university support services can help students prepare for the transition and ensure that they receive necessary accommodations from the start.

Encourage students to contact the university’s student support department as soon as they are ready to decide on their offer. They should discuss their specific needs and ask about the assistance available. Providing a checklist or template for these communications can be beneficial. This proactive approach helps students feel more prepared and less anxious about the transition.

Additionally, early engagement with support services allows universities to tailor their resources to meet the student’s needs from day one.

Speaking to alumni

Alumni with special educational needs who have successfully navigated university can offer invaluable insights and reassurance to current students and their parents.

Organise talks or workshops where alumni share their experiences and discuss the positive impact of university support services. This can inspire confidence and provide practical advice on managing special needs in higher education.

Hearing first-hand accounts from peers who have faced similar challenges and succeeded can be incredibly motivating for students. It also provides a realistic perspective on the types of support available and how to use them effectively.

Transforming students’ education

These strategies collectively ensure that students with special needs receive the accommodations necessary to succeed. Early intervention and continuous support help build a strong foundation for their future endeavours.

By guiding students and their families through the complexities of educational transitions and advocating for necessary resources, counsellors can help students achieve their true potential and prepare for a bright future.

Through these efforts, we can transform the educational experiences of students with special needs, enabling them to thrive academically and personally. This not only enhances their self-confidence and sense of achievement but ensures they are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead – in higher education and beyond.