Deaf Studies
Celebrating Deaf Identity & Culture
Longwill is committed to helping every Deaf child develop a strong and positive Deaf identity. Through Deaf Studies and the wider curriculum, pupils learn about Deaf history, heritage and culture; celebrate British Sign Language as a rich and valued language; explore the achievements of Deaf role models; and learn about Deaf rights, equality and advocacy.
Being Deaf is something to be proud of.
Deaf adults working in and with the school provide authentic linguistic, cultural and professional role models, helping children see the possibilities open to them.
Pupils are supported to understand their communication and access needs, express their views and grow in confidence and independence.
Deaf Studies at Longwill
Mrs Saghir leads Deaf Studies at Longwill and works closely with our Deaf team, who bring a wealth of knowledge, lived experience and understanding of Deafness, Deaf culture and the Deaf community.
Together, they ensure that our Deaf Studies curriculum is rich, meaningful, inspiring and relevant to the lives of our pupils.
Through learning about Deaf history, culture, identity, language, rights and achievements, pupils develop a strong sense of pride in being Deaf and an understanding of their place within both the Deaf and hearing worlds.
Our curriculum is enriched by authentic experiences, Deaf role models, community links and the expertise of Deaf professionals who share their personal journeys and experiences.
We believe that Deaf children benefit greatly from seeing successful Deaf adults in a range of roles across the school. These interactions help pupils develop confidence, raise aspirations and understand that being Deaf is a positive part of who they are.
Our Deaf Studies curriculum celebrates the contributions of Deaf people locally, nationally and internationally, while helping pupils develop the knowledge, language and self-advocacy skills needed to thrive as confident members of the Deaf community and wider society.
Looking to the Future
By the end of their time at Longwill, pupils will have developed a strong understanding of Deaf culture and heritage, a positive Deaf identity, and the confidence to advocate for themselves and others in an increasingly diverse world.