Guidance on Inclusive and Accessible Apprenticeship Placements

Understanding Special Needs:

Disabilities can be generally divided into the following groups:

  • Physical disabilities: mobility (locomotors) disabilities, chronic internal illnesses,
  • Sensory disabilities: blindness and vision impairment, deafness and hearing impairment,
  • Psychological disabilities: psychiatric illnesses, intellectual or learning disabilities.

There are some general rules and suggestions each employer should know while entering into the working relationship with persons with special needs. First of all, disability should not be accepted as a primary characteristic. Rather, a student with a disability should be considered and approached as all the rest, having the same duties and rights. But do not be afraid! If a student with special individual needs,  applies for an apprenticeship, they will help you to find the best way to fulfill their needs in the selected placement.

(by Henrika Varniene)