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Disabilities and Chronic Illness

Disabled people include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments. DAE follows the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, article 26 which recognises and respects the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence, social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community

This means that students are given a fair opportunity to complete their studies. Provided the level of education is not affected, the academy will make the necessary adjustments.

If adjustments are needed, we advise incoming students living with disabilities to request a meeting with a student counsellor as soon as the acceptance letter arrives. This allows additional time before the study year commences to prepare adjustments to the working environment.

Potential options: People living with disabilities have different strengths and can face different challenges. Therefore, it is important to look at specific personal situations with a student counsellor and to look at what is needed and possible to address challenges. The care team can for instance:

  • Support in arranging different furniture

  • Support in arranging adjustment of the layout of furniture to ensure accessibility

  • Support in informing teachers of circumstances students are dealing with

  • Support in informing teachers of student’s needs, for instance:

    o Additional support with assignments
    o Hospital visits
    o Less attendance in class
    o Additional breaks during the day or week
    o Use of a noise cancelling headphones
    o Adjusted setting
    o Use of a laptop

  • Advise on a request to the Examination Board for adjustments that can support you in your studies

  • Advise on a request to the Examination Board for an extra assessment

  • Advise on a request to the Examination Board for and alternative study programme

  • Or else as discussed in the meeting with a student counsellor

Some of these options, such as the alternative study programme require filing documentation with a student counsellor. For more information go to: Care.

Wheelchair accessibility Most of DAE is wheelchair accessible. There are very few thresholds and there are wheelchair accessible bathrooms on most floors. If needed crutches or a wheelchair can be borrowed at the concierge. There is a trained in-house first responder team for emergencies (BHV-bedrijfshulpverlening) to assist you in getting downstairs in case of evacuation.

Guidedogs It is legally required to allow guidedogs in all public buildings and events in the Netherlands. For incoming students who are supported by a guidedog, it is recommended to set up an appointment with a student counsellor as soon as possible, as some adjustments may need to be made regarding safety for the dog in the workshops.

Incoming students Incoming disabled students who have ongoing professional guidance are strongly advised to retain access to their professional support system. Switching to professional support in the Netherlands, close to DAE, may take some time to arrange.

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