Summer transition programme

An image of the National Autistic Society (NAS) logo, accredited 2019.

GCU recognises that making the transition to university can be stressful and worrying for all applicants, and the additional challenges and anxieties that may be experienced by applicants on the autism spectrum who are coming to university for the first time. The Disability team, in partnership with the National Autistic Society (Scotland), delivers a Summer Transition Programme for applicants with a diagnosis on the autism spectrum (or Asperger's syndrome).

Student applicants who have disclosed in their University application will receive an invitation to attend the programme. If you have disclosed, or identify with a diagnosis, and did not receive information about the programme, but would like to attend please contact us at Disability@GCU.ac.uk.

This programme aims to:

  • Provide a smoother transition to incoming students from school or college
  • Improve take-up of offers of places on courses;
  • Assist with the assessment of needs prior to the start of the academic session, and improve retention among students on the autism spectrum.

The programme is delivered in three sessions in the lead-up to the start of the academic year. Each of the sessions is delivered as an informal seminar in a small group setting. Topics covered include:

  • Changes/differences moving between school or college and university
  • Time management
  • Identifying key contacts and sources of support at the University
  • Self-advocacy/being assertive
  • Disclosing your disability
  • Stress and relaxation

The programme also incorporates orientation and, critically, a series of opportunities for applicants to meet and share concerns with other applicants on the programme. Throughout the programme there are opportunities to raise additional questions or concerns and, as the programme establishes ongoing communication between the applicant and the Disability team from the start of the summer break, it also enables the participants to seek advice on managing all the paperwork and procedures associated with applying to University, SAAS and moving away from home.

All queries regarding the Summer Transition Programme for students on the autism spectrum should be directed to the Disability team.