Glyndŵr University shortlisted for Outstanding Support for Disabled Students at Times Higher Education Awards 2008

Wales’ newest university has been shortlisted for a national award in recognition of its work with disabled students.

Glyndŵr University is one of six universities to be shortlisted for the Outstanding Support for Disabled Students award at the Times Higher Education Awards 2008.

Gareth Stafford is one of a number of disabled students studying at the university, where 14.1 per cent of students – the highest anywhere in Wales - claim DSA (Disabled Students’ Allowance).*

The 22-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, completed a foundation degree in Sound Studio Technology using new technology developed by the School of Computing and Communications Technology. His case was used as an example by the University in its original submission for the award.

Gareth said: “I’ve really enjoyed the course and the support from all the staff was amazing. The course was adapted to my needs and alternative ways of assessment were provided where necessary.”

Gareth is also on target to achieve his dream of a medal in the 2012 Paralympic Games. Gareth is a current Welsh international in the paralympic sport of Boccia, a version of bowls for the disabled. Gareth is the only North Wales-based member in the Welsh Boccia squad.

His achievements have seen him awarded Glyndŵr University’s Sports Scholarship on two occasions. This supports the sporting development of elite athletes who are studying at the university.

Gareth is now embarking on a gap year to pursue his dream further. He said: “I am hoping to use the time to support other disabled people playing Boccia and I’m also going to do a coaching course.”

Professor Michael Scott, Vice-Chancellor of Glyndŵr University, added: “To be shortlisted for the Outstanding Support for Disabled Students award is an honour and we are proud to be recognised for the efforts we put into making our students feel welcome and creating an atmosphere they will remember for years to come.”

The Awards are run by the Times and are now in their fourth year. They aim to recognise the ground-breaking work undertaken by UK higher education institutions. Categories include Best Student Experience, University of the Year, Outstanding Student Financial Support Package, Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community, Marketing Initiative of the Year and Outstanding Support for Disabled Students.
 
Ann Mroz, Editor, Times Higher Education, said: “The awards recognise the very best in higher education in the UK and we are delighted to announce that Glyndŵr University has made it on to the shortlist for Outstanding Support for Disabled students. Our senior advisory panel has been taken from all fields of academia and had to choose from hundreds of first-class entries – only the best made it through to our shortlist.”
 
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony, at Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, on Thursday 23 October 2008. Last year more than 1,200 people from all parts of higher education gathered to celebrate the sector’s achievements.

To book a table please contact Maria Myers on tel:01252781178, email: maria@creativeevents.co.uk  or download a booking form from www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/awards 

*HESA Performance Indicators, June 2008