As the select committee report on special needs illustrates, “inclusion” is often thought to mean “mainstreaming”, however inclusion is a state not a location.
The Government’s policy of inclusion has resulted in a significant increase in deaf children in mainstream schools and while some, given appropriate specialist support, prosper, others find their needs can only be met by a specialist placement; every child is unique.
The National Deaf Children’s Society is also calling for a review to consider how parental choice can be more effectively supported when it comes to determining placements for deaf children. A review into how schools for the deaf could maximise inclusion in all settings is also required as is a commitment to ensure that these schools have the expertise to cater for the growing number of pupils with complex and multiple needs.
Gwen Carr Director, UK services, NDCS 15 Dufferin Street, London EC1
