Government moves to open up apprenticeships to more deaf young people
Joe Lepper
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
The government has taken action to create a level playing field for deaf young apprentices, as part of its policy of increasing take-up of courses among vulnerable groups.
Many deaf young people for whom signing is their first language have struggled to pass the English functional skills tests that are needed to complete courses.
But following a campaign by a group of organisations including the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), qualifications using British Sign Language (BSL) will be accepted as an alternative
Brian Gale, NDCS policy and campaigns director, has welcomed the move saying that young deaf apprentices had found completing the course "very challenging" without being able to use sign language.
He said: "BSL is a totally different language, so for users to meet this kind of academic standard is a much bigger challenge than it would be for a native English speaker.
"We heard from parents whose deaf children were doing brilliant work in their apprenticeships but were being held back by that, which they understandably felt was unfair."
He added that the change was especially important as most deaf young people move to vocational education at 16.
Max Buxton, a Nottingham-based 18-year-old engineering apprentice and BSL user, campaigned with his local MP, Labour's Graham Allen, to implement the change. He said: "My employer has said how well I'm doing and doesn't think my language skills are an issue, but I still can't complete the apprenticeship without passing that test.
"It's an unfair, unnecessary rule that has created a lot of stress, so I'm very pleased things are changing now."
There are currently around 1,000 deaf apprentices under the age of 25.
In announcing the change to add BSL qualifications to courses, skills minister Robert Halfon said: "I am committed to breaking down barriers to ensure people of all ages and all backgrounds get on the ladder of opportunity through an apprenticeship.
"For those whose first language is BSL, this simple change will allow them to achieve their full potential.
"I look forward to implementing more changes like this to make sure apprenticeships can work for as many people as possible, whatever their background."
In August last year, the government announced a £2.5bn package of investment to encourage employers to take on more care leavers and children with special educational needs as apprentices.
