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Deaf children 'falling behind' in schools
16 October 2009
A lack of adequate classroom support for deaf children in Wales is causing them to fall behind their classmates in terms of schoolwork, it has been claimed.
The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) Cymru has warned of a 'shocking attainment gap' in Welsh schools, citing as evidence figures which show deaf children are 30 per cent less likely to achieve five GCSEs graded A* to C than hearing pupils.
Jayne Dulson, Director of NDCS Cymru, told Wales Online: 'Deafness is not a learning disability, but there are many barriers which are preventing deaf children from achieving their full potential.
'Narrowing the attainment gap requires more investment in education, health and support services for deaf children and their families.'
However, she added that the organisation does recognise the continued efforts of schools, teachers and support staff in Wales in trying to support the deaf pupils in their classrooms.
NDCS Wales was established five years ago and currently represents the interests of over 800 families across Wales affected by deafness.