Royal College of Music

Funding for an SpLD assessment

Can a student be referred for a Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) support with a Specialist teacher through the University?

Students who do not have a prior diagnosis, but who think they may be dyslexic, can have an initial screening with Student Services, and may be eligible for financial assistance to pay for a full diagnostic assessment, depending on their circumstances. Please contact the Student Services Manager in confidence if you think you may be dyslexic. You can do this at any time during the year.

Disability Adviser available

Are there specialist staff available to talk to within the service?  Is there a disability officer or a disability adviser for students to talk to?

Information not available.

Support from academic staff

Is advice and support available from academic staff within the faculties of the University? How do students access this advice and support?

Academic advice and support is available from a range of sources, including your Personal Adviser, seminar leaders, subject area leaders, or Heads of Programmes, as appropriate. For principal study matters, your principal study professor or your Head of Faculty will be able to give advice and guidance. Students also have access to careers advice and professional development, including performance opportunities, through the RCM Creative Careers Centre and other opportunities across College.

Staff continuity and understanding individual needs

Are the specialist disability staff in the team able to offer a personalised, bespoke response to a student’s needs? Where possible, is continuity provided for the student in meeting the same Disability Adviser and/or mentor so the student can get to know them over time?

A Learning Agreement is drawn up by the Student Services Manager together with you and your Personal Adviser. This document details the impact of your disability/medical condition/specific learning disorder on learning, and the adjustments to teaching that are required, focussing on the various arrangements for coursework and exams. Your support needs can be negotiated with your agreement e.g. extra time for exams, personal readers or flexible deadlines for coursework. The document is shared, again, with your agreement, with those who need to know.

One to one mentoring support

Are there any additional services available such as mentoring, counselling services or a buddy scheme to help a new student to settle in if needed?

The RCM Counsellors offer short term, focussed counselling, (usually 6 x 50-minute sessions). If you require longer term, ongoing therapy or psychological support Student Services can provide information about alternative providers and specialist agencies.

One to one / group study skills

Does the institution provide support with arranging One to one/Group study skills sessions?

Information not available.