Welcome for focus on early years in new education report

A leading deaf children’s charity has welcomed the publication of the Independent Review of Education in Northern Ireland interim report.

Helen Ferguson, Head of Policy and Influencing in Northern Ireland at the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:

“We welcome progress on this important report. It will be central to making sure children with additional needs are properly supported from their earliest interaction with the education system.”

“Deaf children face unique challenges when they enter the school system. Often, they will be the only deaf child in a mainstream school setting, so it is essential that they get the right support from day one.”

“Starting at an early years’ setting can be overwhelming for any child. For deaf children, there are extra challenges, including adjusting to unfamiliar listening conditions, differing deaf awareness levels among staff and of course, the challenge of making new friends.”

The Panel, led by Dr Keir Bloomer, is carrying out a long-awaited review, which was agreed as part of the New Decade New Approach deal. It is examining a range of issues such as academic selection and will provide a blueprint for how education could look in the 21st century.

The interim report has highlighted 10 key issues including the importance of early years to a child’s development.

 Ms Ferguson continued:

 “The development of effective communication skills is at the heart of learning, as well as the emotional development of children. We know that even mild hearing loss can result in substantial communication difficulties. Early years settings can provide excellent opportunities for every child to develop their communication skills. We welcome early years being recognised as an area of priority going forward and look forward to seeing further progress in this area, so that all deaf children have access to the education they deserve."

The interim report sets out the major issues to be addressed in the final report, which is expected in the next six months.