Speakers
Presentation
The session focuses on the 'On-course experience' touchpoint in the Disabled Student Commitment and shares a project undertaken by the University of Greenwich, where it implemented reasonable adjustments for postgraduate research (PGR) students. Feedback from both students and staff highlighted that standard undergraduate reasonable adjustments weren't always appropriate for PGR study due to the distinct structure and delivery of research degrees.
In response, a comprehensive consultation was conducted with key stakeholders, resulting in the development of a tailored set of reasonable adjustments designed specifically for PGR contexts. This session will outline the approach, key findings, and practical outcomes. Delegates will gain insights to better support disabled postgraduate research students.
Shapna has worked at the University of Greenwich since 2018 in the Student Wellbeing Service and is the lead for the institution's work around the Disabled Student Commitment.
Having been in the field of education since 2001, Shapna has worked in various capacities including as a governor at two primary schools and at a secondary school leading on SEND and safeguarding. Shapna has also worked as a specialist teacher and assessor for neurodivergence and as Senior Curriculum Manager for Additional Learning Support at a further education college.
Shapna is an advocate for disabled students support and her career trajectory has reflected this.