How we learn

Every student is different, and so are their communication needs. Our team of Communication Support Workers adapts to each learner, using BSL, SSE or speech depending on preference. BSL is at the heart of the Centre, helping students develop a strong vocabulary, build confidence and reduce barriers to learning.

The Deaf Education Centre isn’t just about academic study – it’s also about identity and belonging. Students are supported to embrace Deaf culture and community, develop independence and build the skills they need for adulthood.

With small class sizes, individualised timetables and a highly skilled support team, students receive the right help at the right time. Whether it’s accessing the full curriculum in their preferred language or developing life skills through Deaf Independence, we make sure every learner has the opportunity to succeed on their own terms.

• Each student receives an individualised timetable, shaped through discussion with them and — where appropriate — their family and circle of support.
• Students are expected to engage in 3 – 5 hours of learning per day, depending on their programme.
• Weekly work is set across timetabled subjects, with a balance of academic study, vocational tasks and wellbeing-focused activities.

We use a range of accessible platforms to support learning, including:

• Practical resource packs (e.g. hair blocks, joinery kits, horticulture seeds) delivered to support hands-on learning from home.
• Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams for live sessions.
• Email, BKSB, Learning Assistant and online vocational resources.

We use a range of accessible platforms to support learning, including:

• Targets and EHCP outcomes are shared and tracked in partnership with families.
• Regular tutorials with staff provide regular feedback and encouragement.
• Maths and English are embedded, continuing to follow topics linked to each student’s learning outcomes.
• Students who do not have access to a laptop are prioritised for college devices.

Remote learning isn’t just about coursework – we place equal importance on supporting students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing. Talk time sessions reflect the same caring approach as on campus, ensuring students stay connected and supported.

Whether in college or at home, we make sure every student has the tools, resources and support to achieve their best.

Work experience is a core part of student life. Every learner has the opportunity to:

• Take part in at least three industry visits in their first year.
• Progress to a work placement, supported by our dedicated Work Coaches.
• Gain hands-on experience through our wide network of employer partners.

These opportunities give students the chance to explore different industries, test their skills in real workplaces and build confidence for the future.

Our Careers Education and Guidance programme supports students to prepare for meaningful futures — whether that’s paid work, supported employment, volunteering or further study.

• Every student has access to impartial careers advice with a Level 6 Qualified Careers Advisor.
• Careers interviews are arranged individually, at a time that suits each learner.

Our programme is benchmarked against the Gatsby Benchmarks, with a yearly action plan to ensure continuous improvement.

Careers interviews are informal, one-to-one meetings designed to help students explore their options and plan next steps.

In your interview, you might talk about:

• Your likes, dislikes and skills — and what career might suit you.
• What you’re good at and what you’d like to improve.
• What steps are needed to get into your chosen career.
• How to look for jobs, write a CV and prepare for interviews.

Why it helps:

• Understand your options and make clearer decisions.
• Learn more about your own strengths and potential.
• Feel more confident about the future.

How to book:

Students can book by emailing the Careers Advisor or asking a member of staff to help arrange it.

Preparing for adulthood starts from day one. Our Transition Team works with each student from their first year at college, building a circle of support that includes families, carers, professionals and external agencies.

• Transition sessions are timetabled each year, using our Transition Toolkit to help students take ownership of their journey.
• Person-centred transition meetings are held throughout college, tailored to each individual’s needs.
• In their final year, students visit potential services and providers to make informed choices about what comes next.
• We work closely with a wide range of professionals and agencies, including social workers, speech and language therapists, job coaches, supported living providers and more.

Our aim is to support every student to progress into employment, further or higher education, supported or independent living, or social care outcomes.

As students prepare to leave, we provide clear guidance and signposting for next steps, including:

• Jobs: links to trusted job sites, employer websites and local council careers pages.
• Apprenticeships: advice on applying and where to search for opportunities.
• Volunteering: routes into community opportunities and national services.
• Benefits & support: guidance on Universal Credit, Access to Work, and other disability support schemes.
• Social care support: referrals into day/respite provision, Shared Lives and personal assistants.