TWO deaf students at Southend High School for Girls have been encouraging their fellow pupils to learn about hearing loss and sign language.

Year eight pupil Eloise Pennycott, alongside sixth former Daniel Dominey, have been spreading their awareness of deafness and the importance of being able to sign.

Eloise, who was diagnosed with mild hearing loss in early 2016 shortly before starting at the school, recently lead a form assembly featuring songs signed by pupils.

She said: “It was really tricky coming to terms with it at first, and I almost always kept it to myself.

“When I started to talk more about it, I found I had so much support from my friends and teachers, which was really nice.”

Eloise has been partnered with profoundly deaf sixth-former Daniel Dominey in a mentoring scheme. He has been teaching her how to sign.

Daniel, who works to improve disabled access to education, said: “We all face barriers that can get in the way of success - some are invisible to others, mine are more obvious.

“The holistic environment at Southend High School for Girls continues to embrace pupils with differences, and helps us all achieve our potential.”

Emma Hatcher, who works as Daniel’s communication support worker, set up a British Sign Language (BSL) class and was amazed to see 60 sixth form students at the first session.

She said: “The school has opened up lots of opportunities for Daniel, Eloise, and myself. We are very thankful that the school have embraced us and let us spread deaf awareness and knowledge in BSL.”

Headteacher Fiona Brierley praised the efforts of the school and said: “The fact that we have both staff and students learning BSL indicates that there is a serious endeavour to include those in our community, within and beyond the school, who have a hearing impairment.

“Equally, Eloise and Daniel are fantastic role models for all our students with their positive mindsets and determination.”