New College Swindon says it will make facilities accessible

Alycia Ellis was told she could not carry on her college course in person because of her additional needs

Staff at a college labelled "unsafe" by a disabled student over a lack of accessible toilets have said they will make adaptations as soon as they can.

Alycia Ellis, 18, said New College Swindon, told her she could not study there because of her mobility needs.

"We have accessible toilets that are private that Alycia can use," said assistant principal for student services, Stephen Rodger.

"We've been as supportive as we can."

Ms Ellis is returning to school on Monday after several weeks at home.

'Misconceptions'

She is is studying for her internship at the Queen's Drive campus, but her final year is at the North Star campus, which she said could not accommodate her needs.

She uses an electric wheelchair after spinal surgery in the summer.

Her mother, Natasha Seaton, claimed the college suggested Ms Ellis learn at another site that could provide wraparound care.

Mr Rodger said Ms Ellis' family had some "misconceptions about how everything worked."

He said: "There was a thought that we would be providing personal care, and that's not the case.

"Personal care comes from the local authority."

Matt Butcher, chief commercial strategy officer said: "We will adapt and make our facilities as accessible as we can, but part of that comes from the personal support the student has.

"We haven't been able to ascertain and map out what was provided."

Swindon Borough Council said: "Colleges in neighbouring local authorities have support workers who can help students with personal care but, for some reason, this does not happen at New College.

"We have been having regular meetings with New College to address the differences in the SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) offer of the colleges.

"We have arranged a support worker in this instance because the most important person in all of this is Alycia and ensuring she can continue her education in college as soon as possible."