Neurodiverse and Disabled Learner Support

If you're one of our students and you have an impairment or disability, medical condition, or injury that might affect your studies, don't worry – we’ve got you.

We want everyone to be successful and reach their full potential, and we believe in creating a campus environment that's safe, inclusive, and free from any kind of discrimination.

Confidential support from day one

So, what exactly does this mean for you? Well, when you first enrol at Elite, we’ll ask if there's any specific support you need or if there are any barriers you think you might encounter during your studies. This information is kept confidential, so you don't have to worry about anyone else finding out about it without your permission. After that, you'll get to meet with a Learner Success Co-Ordinator who will work with you to create a dedicated support plan that meets your needs.

A safe space on campus

And if you're someone who's hypersensitive to sensory information or just need a quiet space to self-regulate, we have sensory spaces available at some of our campuses. These spaces are equipped with products that can help with de-escalation.

New Zealand’s most comprehensive sensory space for neurodivergent learners is being launched by Yoobee Colleges at its 360 Queen Street campus, which houses learners studying at New Zealand School of Tourism, Cut Above Academy and Elite School of Beauty and Spa. Read more here.

Elite also offers additional support services like:

• pastoral care
• counselling for mental health and wellbeing
• stress management
• relationship concerns, and student advocacy.

• https://workbridge.co.nz/
• https://www.youthline.co.nz/
• https://enable.co.nz/
• https://www.cab.org.nz/

Kelly Stevens

Head of Learner Success

Kelly is the Head of Learner Success. She had been with the wider UP Education group for 11 years, has worked in multiple roles, is a member of the Yoobee Colleges Executive team and is also a qualified adult teacher and facilitator. She understands the challenges students face daily. She is responsible for the Educational Performance Strategy, new initiatives and ensuring that we are providing equitable opportunities for all students.

Rachael Atkinson

Learner Success Team Lead

Rachael is the Learner Success Team Lead. She has worked within the UP Education group for six years, supporting both students and campus staff to achieve successful outcomes. She strongly values developing people and encouraging student achievement through education. She is responsible for leading the Learner Success Team to improve the overall educational performance of Elite by embedding effective practices across all campuses.

Preeti Kaul

Supports Elite Auckland

Preeti is our Learner Success Coordinator for Elite in Auckland City. During her time with UP Education, she has successfully worked with multiple brands and campuses to improve learner outcomes. Nurturing youth and their success have been her main forte. Preeti is enthusiastic and eager to focus her attention on supporting her campuses with identifying learner needs and implementing strategies to help achieve equitable outcomes.

Wendy Roesler

Supports Elite Wellington

Wendy is our Learner Success Coordinator for our Wellington campus. She comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the education sector as well as a passion for supporting students to succeed. She is committed to improving academic outcomes using a holistic approach that addresses students' emotional, social, ethical, and educational needs.

Kassandra King

Supports Elite Hamilton and Elite Tauranga

Kassandra is our Learner Success Coordinator for Elite Hamilton and Elite Tauranga. Kassandra has dedicated herself to the realm of education with nine years of experience. From traditional classrooms to modern online platforms, she has explored various avenues to enhance the learning journey. Kassandra is passionate about crafting inclusive and effective learning environments for all students. She excels in attentive listening, offering personalised strategies to empower individuals on their path to success.