Deaf Academy in Exmouth secures another good rating by Ofsted

The Deaf Academy in Exmouth has further strengthened its commendable reputation by obtaining a Good Ofsted rating for its Post-19 provision.

Recognised for its care, quality education and support, the Academy has made leaps since its previous inspection in April.

This endorsement confirms its reputation as a national and regional hub of excellence for deaf education and for championing the rights of deaf people.

With such recognition, the Academy celebrates a clean sweep of Good grades across all areas of provision, affirming its comprehensive quality educational provisions.

Recently, its residential care service was also rated Good, along with Rolle House, its children’s home as well as being described as a place of inspiration.

The Academy educates 73 deaf young people aged nine to 25 from across the UK, about half of whom are residential students.

Aiming to accommodate the distinct needs of profoundly deaf students, the Academy has also recently expanded to include Fearnside House, a 10-bed residential and learning hub for Post-19 pupils.

Sylvan Dewing, principal of the Deaf Academy, said: "We are delighted that the most recent Ofsted inspection has resulted in a grade of Good for our Post-19 provision – meaning the quality and standards that we strive to achieve in all aspects of the Academy are now recognised as Good."

Mr Dewing additionally highlighted how the inspection gave affirmation for the support provided to students regarding life skills, career guidance, work-related activities, and knowledge alignment towards achieving aspirations.

Dame Angela Pedder, chair of the board of trustees, and Tony Alexander, chair of the board of governors, issued a combined statement: "The Deaf Academy has undergone a journey of transformation over recent years.

"This has been enhanced by the move to our state-of-the-art facilities in Exmouth and the recent purchase and refurbishment of nearby Fearnside House, which provides a dedicated residential and learning space for our Post-19 students.

"Everyone involved with the Academy has played a part in achieving these excellent Ofsted grades and should be very proud of their commitment to our students and this achievement."

The Ofsted report on the Post-19 provision commended the personalised programmes and therapeutic support, contributing to students' overall skills development, personal development, life skills, and sense of pride in being a deaf person.

Commending the Academy's supportive, welcoming, safe, calm and inclusive learning environment, inspectors praised the use of BSL for communication.

They also recognised the efforts to prepare students for adulthood, for future employment, and to advocate for themselves as adults.

Overall, the Academy's leadership along with the staff were praised for holding high aspirations and ambitions for their students.