Our Academy
Founded in 1826, the Deaf Academy provides a school and Further Education college for Deaf young people aged 9-25, and currently has 77 students.
We are located in Devon, but our unique provision and specialist expertise mean that students come from across the UK to attend, with many using our residential care facilities.
Inspired by DeafSpace architecture, light and colour permeate the Academy building, clear sightlines and wide corridors enable signers to communicate and acoustics are carefully managed. Meanwhile, large classrooms and modern therapeutic facilities are designed to complement each other and provide state-of-the-art education for Deaf young people.
We specialise in supporting Deaf children and young people who also have multiple or complex additional needs, including multi-sensory impairment, autism and physical disabilities.
With a language-rich environment of British Sign Language (BSL) and English, we provide a bespoke curriculum that offers tailored learning pathways to ensure all of our students are studying in the way that is right for them.
Our Vision and Philosophy
The Deaf Academy nurtures and grows confident, resilient and independent Deaf young people. The curriculum supports the development of resilient behaviours, knowledge and skills to excel in the wider world. Our curriculum informs everything we do across education, care, support and the whole Academy.
At the Deaf Academy we embrace the diversity of both our learners’ communication needs and special education needs, and support them on a journey towards a strong sense of self and a clear identity.
Rich Language Acquisition
Students learn in a language-rich environment using British Sign Language (BSL), English and Sign Supported English. Our goal is for every student to build a strong, coherent vocabulary and feel empowered to communicate confidently within the Deaf community and the wider world. A broad curriculum supports literacy and BSL development.
Empowering Knowledge and Skills
We take a student-centred approach, focusing on individual goals and skills. Teachers use their expertise to create inspiring plans, ask meaningful questions, and encourage deep thinking to help students grow in knowledge and confidence.
Positive Relationships
Many students have faced social isolation or negative educational experiences. We prioritise building positive relationships and supporting social, emotional, and linguistic development. Through PSHE and enrichment activities, students make friends, develop self-esteem, and explore their Deaf identity.
Strong Identity
Our curriculum fosters curiosity and self-discovery, helping students leave as proud Deaf individuals who understand their role in the world. Staff act as Deaf role models, and bespoke PSHE and ‘Wider World’ programmes build knowledge and confidence over time.
Aspirational and Independent
We set high expectations and encourage resilience, responsibility and independence. Students actively engage in their learning through SMART targets and personalised plans. They are supported to take risks, learn from failure, and develop the confidence and character needed to thrive in life.