A Buddy Scheme - Supporting Transition and Progression for students with Aspergers Syndrome

Overview

The project aims to improve the student experience for students with Aspergers Syndrome (AS) by developing a 'Buddy Scheme' to support transition into SHU and progression throughout stages of the student life cycle. Within the project will be an evaluation of the benefits of a 'Buddy Scheme' on learner autonomy, and will also draw up a successful recruitment and training plan to co-ordinate and manage potential student 'buddies'. The 'Buddy Scheme' will then be launched through the Disabled Student Support Portfolio, after which the project will share good practice on both a local and national level and will publicise the findings through national journals and conferences.

Aim and Objectives:

To improve the student experience for students with Aspergers Syndrome (AS) by developing a 'Buddy Scheme' to support transition into SHU and progression throughout stages of the student life cycle.
To evaluate the benefits of a 'Buddy Scheme' on learner autonomy
To draw up an successful recruitment and training plan to co-ordinate and manage potential student 'buddies'
To launch the 'Buddy Scheme' through the Disabled Student Support Portfolio
To share good practice on both a local and national level and to publicise the findings through national journals and conferences

Anticipated Outcome

To develop a voluntary 'Buddy Scheme' following a pilot project
To build confidence for students with AS
To encourage participation in a wide variety of University activities
To improve retention rates
Raise aspirations for disabled students considering progression into HE
To contribute to employability for students recruited and trained through the 'Buddy Scheme'

Resources