Schoolchildren enjoy sign language as they mark Deaf Awareness Week

In classes the children discussed how it felt to be deaf and looked at some of the challenges

Children from Alexandra Park primary school marked Deaf Awareness Week last week.

The children at the school were introduced to sign language during an assembly.

In classes they discussed how it felt to be deaf and looked at some of the challenges.

The children were already a little aware of sign language following successful performances from Y3 of poetry using sign language and the inclusion of sign language in their songs during the annual Singing Square (a singing event where the whole school learns music to share).

PSHE Leader Samantha Nicholson-Hickling said: "It's so important the children learn about different languages.

"Our children are used to discussing how it feels when you don't speak a language, but this week has broadened their horizons to look at what it feels like when your language is controlled by your hands.

"Some children have really enjoyed the challenge of learning a little sign language and I think it has made them think."

Sign language has also made it's way into music lessons for Y6, with the children taking part in signing and listening to artistic representations of music from BBC Bitesize.

Mrs Nicholson-Hickling added: "Our school is a welcoming and inviting place for everyone including those who may have a hearing imparement.

"We work hard to make everything accesible no matter what the child's difficulty.

"Hearing is no different and everyone is made to feel part of the Alex Park family, even when they do have difficulties.

"When my husband was diagnosed with a hearing difficulty, it really opened my eyes to some of the challenges.

"He now wears hearing aids to help him and sharing that with the children can sometimes make it seem more 'real' to them and opens up a conversation."

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