Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment he has made of the recent study by City University, London and the Nuffield Foundation of deaf children in the education system; and if he will make a statement.

The Department for Education has not made an assessment of the recent study by City University, London and the Nuffield Foundation of deaf children in the education system. The study helpfully considers ways and strategies to assist teachers identify reading problems and dyslexia for deaf children. It is for schools and professionals working with deaf children to consider the significance of the findings and how it informs their practice in identifying and supporting children with hearing loss.

Through the Children and Families Act 2014, the Government aims to improve support for children with special educational needs and disability (SEND) including deaf children. It also includes support for teachers and other school staff to gain the knowledge and skills to support pupils with SEN and disabilities.

The new SEND Code of Practice due to come into force in September, will set out clear guidance for schools on the process for appropriate identification, assessment, monitoring and securing further support for all children and young people with SEN and disabilities including those with sensory impairments.