Bolton College's commitment to providing unparalleled support for D/deaf learners took centre stage yesterday during its highly-successful D/deaf Open Event.

The event showcased the College's renowned D/deaf provision; D/deaf young people from across the borough explored first-hand the exceptional resources and support they can expect to receive if they join the College’s vibrant D/deaf community. 

With a history of over 35 years supporting and empowering D/deaf learners, Bolton College continues to set the standard for excellence in specialised D/deaf education.

For any D/deaf young person leaving school, the College and the D/deaf team offer a seamless school-to-college transition. Once they have joined the College, learners receive a programme of personalised learning and an extensive range of support services tailored to meet their unique needs, including expert language and technical tutorials, resource modifications and more.

Among the highlights of the event were the insights provided by the College's dedicated staff, including British Sign Language (BSL) Support Workers/Interpreters. Each discussed their commitment to ensuring that every D/deaf learner at Bolton College receives the support necessary to reach their full potential.

Visitors also enjoyed guided tours of the College led by current and ex D/deaf students, who spoke enthusiastically about their positive experiences at Bolton College, providing valuable first-hand perspectives on student life.

Attendees were impressed by the positive and vibrant atmosphere at the event, with many initially unaware but pleasantly surprised by the extent of the specialised D/deaf support offered by the College.

Anonymous feedback from visitors was overwhelmingly positive, with one participant praising the College's "fantastic inclusive learning environment for all D/deaf learners – the students who showed us around obviously love studying here."

Another guest said "Congratulations on a great event. The room was full and there was definitely a great buzz in the room. The Bolton College D/deaf support staff should feel proud of themselves."

Siwan Hilton-Graham, Head of Learning Support at Bolton College, said: "We were so pleased to showcase the inclusive, unique and supportive environment that Bolton College provides for D/deaf learners; we’re absolutely committed to giving our students a sense of belonging, and the tools to confidently achieve a vocational qualification for their dream career – it’s what sets Bolton College apart.

“The turnout and feedback from the event was excellent and a testament to the pride our staff take in their roles; it really shines through and I know that our visitors picked up on this.

“We remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment, and the success of the D/deaf Open Event underscores the College's ongoing commitment to providing exceptional support for D/deaf learners in Bolton and beyond.”