The Children’s Commissioner visited Cregagh Primary School, the only specialist deaf unit in a Northern Ireland mainstream primary school. Read more about Chris' experience and how Deaf Units are helping deaf and hearing impaired children reach their full potential.
Every child has the fundamental right to an education tailored to their unique needs, ensuring they can thrive and reach their full potential. Cregagh Primary School in Belfast exemplifies this commitment through its dedicated Deaf Units, providing specialised support for deaf students from Foundation Stage to Key Stage 2.
NICCY recently visited excellent facilities and saw first-hand how fostering an inclusive and supportive
learning environment upholds the principles of equitable education and celebrates every child’s diversity and potential.
Cregagh Primary School’s Deaf Unit has the only specialist deaf unit in a Northern Ireland mainstream primary school.
For over 30 years, Cregagh Primary School’s Deaf Unit has provided vital support to deaf pupils with dedicated teaching from Qualified Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People and skilled Special Needs Assistants for pre-school and primary-aged children. It stands as a testament to the school’s commitment to inclusive, tailored education.
It was fantastic to visit the school and see the ongoing work firsthand. I had the honour of speaking to children and staff who make this such a nurturing environment. I’m incredibly grateful to the school for the opportunity to hear directly from the children and for their support in helping me create my sign name.
Their vision is to have a specialist teacher-led nursery class that combines provision for hearing and deaf children, an approach I strongly support. The success of this model underscores the critical need for government action to enhance services for deaf children across Northern Ireland. Early intervention and support, including prompt diagnosis and access to specialised educational resources, are vital for the development and well-being of these children.
The need for speech and language skills development for pre-school and early years children is particularly important so that children build their confidence and self-belief from the start of their education.
The UNCRC emphasises that every child has the right to an education that caters to their personality, talents, and abilities, including providing specialised support for children who are deaf or have hearing impairments.
The UNCRC consistently urge states to strengthen inclusive education systems, ensuring that children with disabilities, such as those in Deaf Units, receive the necessary resources and accommodations.
The principles of the UNCRC must be fully incorporated into domestic law, ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, has access to a quality, inclusive education that upholds their rights and dignity.
