Doncaster teachers achieve specialist Deaf education qualifications

Two teachers at Doncaster School for the Deaf are celebrating gaining postgraduate qualifications.
 
Both have gained Postgraduate Diploma, Teacher of the Deaf qualifications, Melissa Kasparek, from Wakefield, studied at the University of Manchester and Anna Blakey, from Doncaster, at the University of Leeds.
 
Sarah Barton, headteacher at Doncaster School for the Deaf said: “We are so proud of Anna and Melissa. We know how hard they have worked to gain these qualifications and their dedication to Deaf education is second to none.
 
“Both Teachers of the Deaf will continue to support Deaf pupils and ensure that children and young people at our school thrive.”
 
Anna started working at Doncaster School for the Deaf in 2013 and has developed a deep commitment to supporting deaf pupils, she said: “Achieving my qualification as a Teacher of the Deaf is a significant personal and professional milestone, especially as I am profoundly deaf myself.
 
“It recognises the experience, dedication, and specialist knowledge I have built throughout my time here. This qualification provides me with the expertise to meet the individual needs of the pupils I teach, and it will make a meaningful difference by improving access to learning, supporting pupils to develop their deaf identity, language and communication, and inclusion for the children and young people I support, while also strengthening my own practice and professional growth.”
 
Melissa has worked at Doncaster School for the Deaf since 2022, developing a strong commitment to supporting deaf children and understanding their individual needs, she said: “Becoming a Qualified Teacher of the Deaf is a significant achievement for me as I am dedicated to the development of our specialist education and my passion for ensuring that deaf pupils have equal access to learning and opportunities.
 
“This qualification will allow me to make a greater difference by developing my specialised skills, improving language and learning outcomes, and empowering the children I teach to reach their full potential while also strengthening my own confidence and professional practice.”
 
Doncaster School for the Deaf is part of Doncaster Deaf Trust, providing outstanding specialist education and care for Deaf children.
 
To find out more visit www.deaf-trust.co.uk/school