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Deaf children in North West likely to fall a
whole grade behind peers at GCSE
GOVERNMENT figures show that deaf children across the
North West of England are likely to fall a whole grade behind their peers in
their GCSE's. With thousands getting their results this week, the National
Deaf Children's Society is urging the Government, local authorities and health
bodies to provide the support needed to close the GCSE attainment gap between
deaf and hearing children.
Hazel Badjie, North West Director for the National Deaf Children's Society,
said:- "Deafness is not a learning disability; with the right support,
there's no reason why deaf children can't achieve the same things as their
hearing friends. Sadly, this data suggests they're not getting that support."
The charity is particularly concerned about deaf children in Bury, following
council plans to reduce specialist support and a recent Ofsted / CQC inspection
finding "significant areas of weakness" in local services for
children with special educational needs and disabilities. "As school gates re open this week, Bury City Council must reconsider
their plans to cut vital support services. This gap in GCSE attainment shows
deaf children need more support, not less; so the focus now should be on
improving outcomes, not on cutting costs," added Jessica Reeves, the
charity's Campaigns Manager.
The charity has also challenged Council proposals in Cumbria, to close
specialist support units for deaf children in mainstream schools. To find out
more, visit:-
NDCS.Org.UK
for more information.
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