Language, Identity & Communication

At Longwill, we understand that language is the foundation of learning, relationships, confidence and wellbeing. We believe that all Deaf children have the right to access language from the earliest possible opportunity.

Through our Sign-Bilingual approach, we provide an immersive environment where both British Sign Language (BSL) and spoken English are valued, respected and actively promoted.

This enables children to develop strong communication skills using their preferred method of communication while also having access to a rich and engaging curriculum.

Our inclusive environment encourages pupils to become confident communicators who can navigate both Deaf and hearing communities successfully.

Every Deaf Child Is Unique

We recognise that every Deaf child is unique. Some children communicate primarily through BSL, some use spoken language, and many use a combination of communication approaches.

Our highly skilled staff work closely with each child to ensure they have full access to learning and social opportunities.

Through personalised support, specialist teaching and a language-rich environment, we help children develop their communication, literacy, academic and social skills.

Working in Partnership with Families

At Longwill, partnership with families is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that families play a vital role in a child’s language development and overall success.

We work closely with parents and carers from the moment a child joins our school, providing guidance, advice and opportunities to learn alongside their child.

We also support families to develop their confidence in using BSL and communicating effectively at home, ensuring that language learning continues beyond the classroom.

Through workshops, family learning opportunities and regular communication with school staff, we empower parents and carers to actively support their child’s development, wellbeing and future aspirations.

Sign-Bilingual Education at Longwill

Language access is central to learning at Longwill. We use a sign-bilingual approach in which British Sign Language (BSL) and spoken/written English are used responsively and in parallel.

This gives pupils rich access to communication, curriculum knowledge, relationships and Deaf identity.

Vocabulary is taught explicitly and visually. Staff use clear sight lines, visual modelling, signed explanations, captioned media and appropriate communication support.

Pupils are encouraged to communicate confidently, understand their own access needs and advocate for themselves.

At Longwill, we believe that every Deaf child deserves full access to language, communication and learning from the very beginning.

Our Sign-Bilingual approach means that children learn through both British Sign Language and English, enabling them to develop strong communication skills in ways that suit their individual needs.

We recognise that Deaf children communicate in different ways. Some children use BSL as their primary language, some use spoken English supported by hearing technology, and others use a combination of signing and spoken language.

Our role is to help each child develop confidence and competence in their preferred method of communication while ensuring they have access to a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Across the School, Pupils Experience

• BSL and English being used during lessons and learning activities.
• Visual teaching strategies to support understanding and participation, including Visual Phonics.
• Opportunities to develop vocabulary, literacy, reading and writing skills through both languages.
• Access to Deaf and hearing role models who demonstrate a range of communication approaches.
• Classroom environments that promote communication, interaction and language development.

Supporting Language Development & Communication Choice

Language development is central to everything we do. Our specialist staff work closely with each child to understand their individual strengths, communication preferences and learning needs.

We support pupils through:

• Rich language experiences throughout the school day in both BSL and spoken language.
• External and internal educational visits.
• Qualified Teachers of the Deaf.
• Qualified BSL tutors.
• Deaf professionals who bring lived experience, language expertise and cultural knowledge, providing children with authentic and inspiring role models.
• Development of expressive and receptive communication skills.
• Encouragement and confidence in BSL, spoken English or a combination of both.
• Support for literacy, vocabulary and comprehension.
• Personalised learning opportunities that match each child’s communication needs.

We believe children should have the opportunity to explore and develop the communication methods that work best for them, empowering them to become independent and confident learners.

Supporting Families

At Longwill, we recognise that families play a vital role in a child’s language and communication development.

We work in partnership with parents and carers to help create meaningful communication opportunities both at school and at home.

We support families through:

• Regular communication about their child’s progress and development.
• Practical strategies to encourage communication in everyday family life.
• Information and guidance about Deafness, language development and communication choices.
• Opportunities to connect with other families and members of the Deaf community.
• Signposting to specialist services and support networks.

Family BSL Learning Opportunities

Where available, Longwill offers opportunities for parents, carers, siblings and extended family members to learn and develop their BSL skills.

These opportunities may include:

• Weekly family BSL lessons in person and online.
• Sign-of-the-week resources.
• Home learning materials and communication activities.
• Family events that promote the use of BSL in a relaxed and supportive environment.