Two schools in Torquay, South West England, will soon lose their specialist hearing impairment units – a move that has caused significant concern among parents, deaf organisations, and local communities. The decision, made by Torbay Council, has led to public protests and strong criticism from experts. Many fear that deaf children will no longer receive the support they need to thrive in mainstream education.
The Decision and the Council’s Reasoning
Torbay Council’s overview and scrutiny committee has approved plans to shut down the hearing units at St Margaret’s Primary School and The Spires College.
Councillor Nick Bye, who is responsible for children’s services, explained that the decision was based on numbers. Although the council had provided funding for 16 specialist places through Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), only five children were actually using them.
He emphasized that this decision would not reduce support for deaf students. “It’s absolutely a continuation of support,” said Councillor Bye. “It’s just the way we’re funded. Money will follow the individual pupil.”
According to him, the closures reflect a different funding model, where support will now be arranged on a case-by-case basis rather than through specific units.
Concerns from Parents and Charities
Not everyone agrees with the council’s explanation. The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) expressed strong disappointment.
Martin Thacker, deputy director of local engagement at NDCS, said:
“Without this support, deaf children can fall behind in lessons, struggle to build friendships, and suffer from low self-esteem. These hearing units are essential for their wellbeing and development in a mainstream school environment.”
A petition opposing the closures collected over 1,600 signatures, and protestors gathered in the town centre before the council meeting. Many carried banners, banged drums, and voiced their frustration about the lack of proper consultation.
St Margaret’s Academy said that the council only considered students with EHCPs, not the many others with hearing difficulties who also rely on the unit’s services.
“Morally Wrong” and Poor Consultation
Felicity Morris, secretary of the Parent Teachers Association at St Margaret’s, strongly criticised the decision process:
“Parents were not consulted. Qualified Teachers of the Deaf were not involved. Even the school leaders were not asked – they were simply told. This is not just morally wrong but also legally risky.”
Morris added that the issue was not about saving money or closing buildings, but about the rights and needs of deaf children. She pleaded with the council:
“Don’t close the doors on the only places where deaf children are truly understood.”
Can Deaf Children “Flourish” Without These Units?
Councillor Bye insisted that deaf children will still thrive – even in schools without dedicated hearing support units. He pointed out that many hearing-impaired children already attend other schools in the Torbay area without such units and are doing well.
“With the strong support tradition at both St Margaret’s and Spires, I’m confident that the children will continue to flourish,” he said.
However, many disagree. They argue that deaf children need more than general support – they need specialists who understand their language, culture, and communication needs.
Committee Admits Room for Improvement
The committee acknowledged that the consultation process could have been better. Communication with parents, staff, and deaf organisations was clearly lacking.
In response, the National Deaf Children’s Society is now reviewing its next steps. It may continue to challenge the decision and push for more transparency and fairness in future education decisions affecting deaf children.
Conclusion: What This Means for Deaf Children and Families
The closure of these hearing support units is more than an administrative change – it impacts the daily lives, learning experience, and future of deaf children. While the council claims the level of support will remain the same, many parents and experts are skeptical. They fear that without the dedicated spaces and qualified professionals, deaf children may be left behind.
The situation highlights a broader issue: how can local authorities meet the needs of all children with disabilities in an inclusive and respectful way?
Tips for Families Affected by the Changes:
- Stay informed: Contact your school and local authority to understand what changes are planned for your child.
- Ask about support: Make sure your child’s needs are clearly written into their EHCP or learning plan.
- Reach out to NDCS or local deaf charities: These organisations offer advice and may help challenge unfair decisions.
- Join together: Other families may be facing the same issues. Forming a parent group can strengthen your voice.
- Document everything: Keep records of all communication with the school and council.
Deaf children have a right to education – not just access, but meaningful inclusion. Their needs must not be overlooked in budget decisions.
