It has been a proud few weeks for Forth Valley College’s Learning Support Department as they watched how one of the dozens of students they help on a daily basis, saw his work exhibited at the Stirling Campus main reception.
Nathan Brown (25) from Alloa, who has just completed an upper first class BA degree in Art and Design, was displaying two impressive art installations. Through the college’s Learning Support Department Nathan – who has Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy – has had been teamed up with personal helper and BA Art and Design graduate, Brendan Gallagher who assists in the creation of Nathan’s artwork.
Nathan, who used the stigma of disability themes such as Fear and Paranoia and frustration with peoples’ pre-conceived notions what disability is, as an inspiration behind his introspective work in the annual FVC degree and Diploma Show, said: “The College is really top class and the support I have had from the lecturers and the Learning Support Department has been excellent. They are all so knowledgeable and always there if you need any help and the facilities are excellent.
“I don’t think I would have been able to be looking forward to starting my own artistic career if wasn’t for Learning Support. They helped team me up with Brendan and I could not have done any of this without him. I would certainly recommend anyone to find out what Learning Support can do to help them while they are at college.”
Brendan Gallagher (56) from Larbert, who has acted as Nathan’s personal assistant while he has been on the course, said: “I have really enjoyed working with Nathan. I have got an awful lot out of it myself and have built up my own confidence. It has been like an apprenticeship and I have loved brainstorming ideas with Nathan and learning new techniques with him. It has been great and I will be back next year supporting someone else at the college.”
Sarah Tervit, FVC Learning Development Facilitator, said: “Nathan is a true inspiration to others showing how, with a little bit of support, they can reach their full potential. Young people with a disability may come to college with low self-confidence and worried about barriers they may face in participating and engaging fully in their chosen course. But we can show them a whole range of support that is available to remove those barriers, allowing them to get the most out of their time at college.
“A Personal Support Plan can be quickly created to put in place personalised support wherever and whenever necessary. We are here to help, so if anyone would like advice on how we can assist, they shouldn’t hesitate to contact us. “
Learning Support can be contacted on 01324 403330
Inspirational Nathan praises Learning Support
