Network Physical Accessibility

” Working together on accessible educational buildings.”

A physically accessible learning environment is a prerequisite for providing truly inclusive education. A building must be easily accessible for students in wheelchairs. Facilities must be available for students with hearing or sight impairments. And students with autism, ADHD or mental health problems, for example, also benefit from a clear, low-stimulation design.

Accessibility goes beyond meeting the building code. A building can be ‘accessible’ on paper, but in practice it can still be a barrier. That is why it is important to share experiences and work together on solutions that do work for students.

Why participate.

The Physical Accessibility Network is for education professionals who want to work to create buildings in which every student feels welcome and safe. As a participant, you can:

• sharing experiences and insights with colleagues
• sharing practical knowledge and learning from other institutions
• identify good practices and make them widely applicable
• Hear and question experts and experts by experience
• Identify bottlenecks and discuss solutions.

” Top: the input from experiencers is very good and nice to see that the group continues to grow. Tip: keep up the good work! ”

– participant

What is central?

Within the network, we address topics such as:

• practical translation of accessibility rules in the school environment
• the difference between formal requirements (building code) and actual student perceptions
• smart design for students with sensory sensitivity
• cooperation between institutions, municipalities and suppliers
• input from students with support needs
• How accessibility contributes to well-being and study success
• sharing concrete solutions that work in practice.

For whom.

The network is intended for anyone within the institution concerned with the physical accessibility of educational buildings. Consider:

• facility managers and housing coordinators
• education quality or diversity & inclusion policy officers
• student services or study choice advisors
• construction, renovation or interior design project managers
• student affairs or support staff
• officials involved in occupational health and safety or mobility

Professionals responsible for ensuring accessibility in new construction or remodeling projects are also welcome.

Join, at no cost

The Physical Accessibility Network is for professionals in mbo, hbo and wo who are involved in the design, accessibility or support within educational buildings. Participation is free and financially made possible by the Ministry of OCW.