Learning

Our Learning Approach

We know how important it is to achieve a balance between the social and academic development of our students. We believe students must be happy and confident in order to be able to achieve their full potential. Here is what you can expect to see when you
look around our school:

• A full curriculum including GCSEs, BTECs, A Levels and Diplomas offered at various levels
• Students immersed in the English language in the classroom to develop language, literacy and listening skills
• Acoustically treated classrooms
• Small class sizes
• A horse-shoe shape desk arrangement so that students can lip read each other and the teacher
• Teachers who are subject specialist Teachers of the Deaf (or are working towards the qualification)
• Students supported into peer groups
• Classrooms equipped with group aid technology to allows pupils to hear each other as well as the teacher
• An Audiology department on site to support students’ hearing and equipment
• A dedicated team of Speech and Language Therapists who directly support students and work alongside teachers to create bespoke targets for each individual pupil’s education

Years 7 to 9

During these years the students will enjoy a range of subjects including:

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11)

In Key Stage 4 students are required to take a selection of compulsory subjects and can then choose up to four optional subjects.

Compulsory Subjects

Additional Subject Options

We are currently offering students the opportunity to gain a Level 2 qualification in BSL, with a view to review as a possible Key Stage 4 qualification option in the future.

Sixth Form

We are the largest centre in the UK for deaf pupils wanting to study A Levels, BTECs and a wide range of vocational courses.

Entry Requirements
For three Level 3 qualifications we normally require 5 GCSEs between 9 to 4 (A* to C). We also offer a range of qualifications at Entry Level to Level 2.

Advanced Subsidiary & Advanced Level

Students will normally take three Advanced Courses and a qualification in Key Skills.

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma

Equivalent to one full A level, awarded at the end of Year 13. Can be combined with AS/A2 level. 

The current offer at L3 is the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching. However, our aim is to run vocational courses that match the needs and interests of the cohort. The NCFE L2 Sports Coaching and the BTEC L3 National Extended Certificate in Sport reflect the options available. Parents will always be advised of any change.