Diversity grant helps bring autism awareness experience to college students

More than 100 learners and staff at Heart of Worcestershire College have taken part in an immersive autism awareness experience.

The Autism Reality Experience Bus visited the college’s Worcester and Bromsgrove campuses last month after the college secured support through our Diversity Grants programme. 

Delivered by specialist organisation Training 2 Care, the experience uses sound, visuals and sensory simulation to help participants better understand how some autistic people experience everyday environments.  The interactive session encourages empathy, awareness and greater understanding of neurodiversity by recreating the challenges of sensory overload. 

A total of 107 learners and staff took part across the two day event, with feedback highlighting the powerful impact the experience had on participants. 

One learner said: “I now have a better understanding of how I feel when I get overstimulated and know that I’m not the only one who feels that way.” 

Another participant reflected: “One thing I will take away from this experience is being more aware of sensory overload and how it can affect people.  Since I felt a bit overstimulated myself, it made me realise how important it is to be patient, reduce unnecessary noise and create a calmer environment when possible.” 

The Diversity Grants programme forms part of our commitment to supporting inclusive communities and raising awareness of the experiences of under represented and marginalised groups. 

Many Heart of Worcestershire college students live in communities managed by us, and the partnership between the two organisations continues to support learners through education, employability opportunities and community initiatives. 

Tom Piotrowski, our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager said: “We were delighted to support Heart of Worcestershire College through our Diversity Grants programme and to help bring this innovative experience to learners and staff. 

“Projects like this play an important role in raising awareness of neurodiversity, encouraging understanding and helping create environments where everyone feels valued, respected and included. 

“We know that some autistic people can face barriers in education, employment and everyday life, so increasing awareness and understanding is incredibly important.  The feedback from participants shows just how impactful this experience has been.” 

Staff who took part also highlighted the value of the experience in supporting their professional practice. 

One member of staff commented: “A really worthwhile experience which added a lot to my understanding of how challenging some situations are for some of our students.” 

Madeline Cozens, Personal Development and Careers Co-ordinator at Heart of Worcestershire College said: “The Autism Reality Experience gave our learners and staff a unique opportunity to better understand the experiences of autistic people and the impact sensory overload can have on everyday life. 

“The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants reflecting on how the experience will influence their behaviour, awareness and support for others in the future. 

“We are extremely grateful to Platform Housing Group for supporting the project through its Diversity Grants programme and helping us continue our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.” 

The event forms part of Heart of Worcestershire College’s ongoing work to promote inclusion, equality and understanding across its campuses.   

Photo caption : The Autism Reality Experience Bus outside HOW College in Worcester