I have always sought AT quotes that include interpreting support for those students that require it. SFE have refused this as stated below:
'All AT providers who are QAG registered we feel should be able to provide their support in different formats and ways so that all student's can receive this including students with disabilities or difficulties. As mentioned in the previous email we feel we would not pay the additional costs for BSL interpretation to be used in AT training for the above reason.'
Is this response familiar to anyone? I would appreciate any advice and whether anyone has successfully challenged it. I think it is highly unlikely that AT trainers/suppliers will absorb the cost of providing an appropriately qualified interpreter so that the student can access the training. What other appropriate formats could possibly meet the needs of a profoundly deaf students? I am at a loss to understand SFE's 'logic.'
Chéron Stevenson
Freelance Student Assessor.
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