Published on 12, July, 2020
Hey Guys, thanks in advance for listening. I've been refused a place on a secondary English PGCE Programme at a prestigious University because in their exact words:
One key area that we felt made our course not right for you relates to spoken communication. We felt that you would need to work on how you respond to and include others in group discussion activities, as well as maintaining focus spoken discussion.
They are aware that I have ASD and ADHD. I have asked them to reconsider and asked if as this was the only reason and they were again in their words aware that I had very many talents, could I complete a fitness to teach assessment as this is part of their policy. I'm already a lecturer at a local college and a guest lecturer at universities.
They have just emailed to say they will not reconsider and if I am unhappy I need to make a formal complaint.
Does anyone have any thoughts and is there anywhere I can approach to assist me in making a complaint as I struggle with forms?
Many thanks
Emma
What are the spoken aspects of the course were you applying for?
Clearly if this revolves around a lot of reading out oud and group discussions then I can see why they came to that conclusion as you would be unable to perform key aspects of the work.
If it is primarily written / read work required then you do have grounds for an appeal.
There should be a Student Advice Centre at the uni who should be your first point of contact.
Also, speak to UCAS - https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/individual-needs/disabled-students
They should be able to offer advice even though you are not yet a student.
I'm sorry I lost my log in. I do need to have spoken communication. The interesting part though is that they have since given me a copy of my interview record which I scored exceptional for my spoken communication during the teaching part of the interview and it was not as strong as other during the group interview. As this was the only reasons given I've spoken to a solicitor and they have confirmed it's discrimination based on my protected characteristics so I've lodged a formal complaint.