As a mainstream primary school with a dedicated Local Authority Deaf Hub, Nova Primary Academy provides a unique learning environment where deaf children access specialist support, including British Sign Language (BSL), alongside mainstream classroom experiences. This blended approach creates a rich, inclusive culture that benefits every pupil.

Throughout Deaf Awareness Week, pupils and staff have taken part in assemblies and classroom activities designed to raise awareness, celebrate deaf culture, and encourage communication inclusivity across the school community.

Mrs Worrall, Lead Teacher of the Deaf Hub said: “Deaf Awareness Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our deaf learners and promote understanding across the whole school. At Nova, inclusion isn’t just something we talk about. It is something we live every day.”

The impact of the Deaf Hub extends beyond its students, helping hearing pupils develop empathy, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of diversity.

Looking ahead, the school is excited to announce that expansion plans for the Deaf Hub are currently in development, with building work scheduled for the summer holidays. The project, supported collaboratively by the Trust and the Local Authority, will enhance facilities and increase capacity ensuring more children can benefit from this specialist provision and will be ready for the new terms in September 2026.

The expansion highlights the strong partnership between Nova Primary Academy, the Trust, and the Local Authority, working together to deliver high-quality, inclusive education for the community.

Jakeem one of the Deaf Hub students said: “When my teachers sign with me, I feel happy.”

Another student said: “It is important for everyone to learn about deaf awareness The Deaf Hub is important to use and there are lots of deaf children in Peterborough who are our friends.”

Mrs Worrall added: “It has been lovely to see all of our children involved in Deaf Awareness week at Nova. We have celebrated with assemblies for Key stage 1 and Key stage 2 with our BSL tutor Justin answering questions about what it is like to be Deaf. We played a lip-reading game in all of our classes and the whole school could enter the BSL competition.”