Information Line (Freephone)
Telephone 0808 808 0123
Textphone 0808 808 9000
informationline@rnid.org.uk
Telephone 0808 808 0123
Textphone 0808 808 9000
informationline@rnid.org.uk
RNID: For deaf and hard of hearing people.
Information for teachers and education professionals in 14-19 education
Pupils nearing the end of secondary school not only have to cope with exams, but think about their future as well. It is vital that teachers in higher and further education are aware of all the strategies and equipment available to help make their education as successful as possible.
Useful resources
We produce several useful factsheets on strategies and equipment for lecturers and tutors who have not worked with deaf students before:
Our education guidelines publication Deaf Students in Further Education, addresses many of the issues facing staff working with deaf learners as they apply for, start and complete their studies at college.
Our other publications that staff may find helpful are:
The South East Region SEN Partnership has produced 14+ Protocol and Recommended Guidelines for Pupils and Students with Sensory Impairment (external link, opens new browser window).
The National Association for Tertiary Education for Deaf People (external link, opens new browser window) (NATED) can provide information about provision for deaf pupils in colleges including assessment, monitoring and advice on modifications for examinations.
The Connexions Service (external link, opens new browser window) provides support for learners aged 13-19, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities. They will help with decisions about and planning for transition between Key Stages 3 and 4 and post-16. Their personal advisers can also help with a range of issues other than traditional careers.
Most pupils will have opportunities to undertake a work experience placement in Key Stage 4 and many schools have links with local colleges. These are ideal opportunities for deaf learners to consider the support and modifications they may need after the age of 16 and which can be discussed when their transition plan is being drafted. Students may decide they want to try different types of technical support either for cosmetic reasons or to suit a different physical environment. Staff working with deaf learners need to understand the function of different technical aids and how to use them effectively.
Post-16 learners are entitled to education maintenance allowance and other financial support may be available. You may find the factsheet Benefits - information for deaf and hard of hearing people useful.
The government is considering major changes to education provision for learners aged 14-19 as a result of the report issued by the Tomlinson Committee in October 2004. To keep up to date with proposals and changes, consult the Department for Education and Skills website (external link, opens new browser window).