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MINISTERIAL FOREWORD
The Scottish Government recognises that people and their skills are Scotland's most valuable resource. In order to develop these skills we must ensure that access to education is based on the ability to learn and not the ability to pay. This vision is key not only to delivering a smarter, wealthier and fairer Scotland but also to achieving our national indicators and targets.
In achieving this vision, our approach to participation in lifelong learning is focussed on removing barriers which prevent students from such participation. Students attending our colleges and universities come from a diverse range of backgrounds and as our institutions become more inclusive we are moving from a widening access agenda to the widening of the mainstream.
We acknowledge that for students with additional support needs, the organisation and payment of support arrangements which allow them to study at college involves a variety of different agencies working in partnership. These arrangements are just as necessary if a student attends university which is why this updated guidance is extended to the university sector.
Support for students with additional support needs is not just the sole responsibility of colleges and universities. All agencies have a role to play - whether by providing personal care or health care support. The key to delivering this support, whether it is to a university student needing support to stay within halls of residence or for a further education student with complex needs wishing to improve their independent living skills, is partnership working.
I have been encouraged to hear about the continued progress which Partnership Matters Forums are making towards removing barriers students face and about the range of approaches they have taken towards improving transition arrangements, whether this is from school or college into college or university, or from college or university into employment.
Smooth transitions are just one element which can help all students realise their potential. It is equally important that agencies provide continuity and stability of support while students are undertaking their studies so they can make the most of their abilities, develop their skills and achieve their aspirations.
The guiding principles of Partnership Matters remain the same since their first introduction in 2005. Acting on the feedback we have received from delivery partners and students themselves this version improves and clarifies sections within the guidance.
Since the first publication of Partnership Matters there have been significant improvements to the support provided to students with additional support needs, but challenges continue and effective practices remain patchy across Scotland. The revised guidance and new case studies within this update of the guidance provide a platform for continued improvement. It is now for partners to use this updated guidance to ensure they play their role in ensuring that students with additional support needs have the same opportunity as their peers to become successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens.
Fiona Hyslop MSP Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning
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