Sign Bilingual Program

The Sign Bilingual program caters to children who use Australian Sign Language (Auslan) as their primary language, with additional learning in written and spoken English. Students have peers and language role models with whom they can directly communicate. The program emphasises both language development and a deeper understanding of Deaf culture.

Every child in our program has:

early access to both English and Auslan from fluent users of the languages
autonomy in choosing their preferred mode(s) of communication when learning or socialising
full access to the curriculum through language they understand.

The ability to access these options helps our students develop:

social skills
linguistic abilities
intellectual growth
cultural awareness
physical well-being
emotional intelligence.

All this contributes to a healthy Deaf identity and positive self-worth.

The program offers a language-rich and dynamic learning experience. We build resilience and promote exceptional growth across all key learning areas. Our team of experienced Teachers of the Deaf work in cutting-edge learning spaces. We offer a diverse range of co-curricular activities. We create a challenging environment that promotes creativity, teamwork, and academic excellence.

In this bilingual setting, students learn both Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and written English. They gain skills to thrive in a bilingual world. The program aims to develop well-rounded individuals. This empowers them to confidently engage in both Deaf and hearing communities.

The program follows the NSW Board of Studies syllabus for Key Learning Areas:

English
Mathematics
HSIE (History and Geography)
Creative Arts
PDHPE
Science and Technology.

We prioritise smaller class sizes, with a maximum of ten students per class. This approach benefits students with sensory processing needs and those needing extra support. Smaller classes allow for more individualised attention, meeting each student’s unique needs. Each classroom includes one Teacher and a Learning Support Assistant. This creates a nurturing environment that fosters academic and emotional growth.

NextSense School has a Leader of Research on staff. This is a crucial role in advancing knowledge in this area and ensuring:

better understanding of how sensory processing impacts learning
informed teaching strategies that consider deaf diversity, enhancing inclusivity
curriculum frameworks that promote sensory integration and accessibility for all deaf learners
better learning spaces that recognise and address sensory challenges. This happens through thoughtful design and effective intervention.

Learning

At NextSense School, parent involvement is an essential element of the program. We encourage parents to collaborate with teachers and support staff. Regular communication with families helps reinforce school strategies at home. This sets up your child for success beyond the classroom.

Individualised Education Plans (IEPs)

Every student receives a personalised education plan. We tailor this to each student’s specific learning needs. Teachers and support staff meet with the student’s family to develop the IEP. The plan focuses on setting goals for both academic achievement and social skills.

The learning plan evolves over time to match the student’s progress and needs.

Bilingual Approach

The program integrates Auslan and English as core languages. It recognises Auslan as the primary language of the Deaf community.

We encourage students to think and communicate in both languages. This supports fluency in both signed and written forms of communication.

Teachers use dual language strategies in all learning areas. They ensure both languages are used effectively to teach complex concepts and content.

Differentiated Instruction

The program meets the diverse needs of students. It provides individualised learning plans tailored to each child’s strengths and growth areas.

Differentiated instruction helps teachers adapt their methods and materials as required. This ensures students can access the curriculum in a way that suits their learning style. They can learn through visual, tactile, or spoken communication modes. We adapt our style based on each child’s speech perception and language abilities.

Collaborative Learning

A key feature of this teaching method is fostering a collaborative learning environment. Students engage in group projects, discussions, and activities. These promote teamwork, problem-solving, and respect.

This approach boosts creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth. It helps students form strong bonds with their peers and teachers.

Language and Literacy Development

Teachers use a structured literacy program. It focuses on reading and writing in English while reinforcing language skills in Auslan.

The curriculum promotes language development through:

storytelling
guided reading
writing exercises
interactive lessons in both languages.

Early exposure to signed and spoken languages boosts cognitive development. This lays a strong foundation for future literacy and academic success.

Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment

We’ve designed our learning spaces to support visual and auditory needs. Classrooms feature visual aids, assistive technology, and interactive tools for diverse communication styles.

Teachers of the Deaf collaborate with support professionals like speech pathologists and audiologists. This teamwork ensures students get complete and holistic support.

Resilience and Growth Mindset

The Sign Bilingual Program aims to build resilience in students. It empowers them to take on challenges and overcome obstacles both in school and life.

Teachers promote a growth mindset. They encourage students to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. This method helps students develop a positive attitude toward learning.

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Students in the Sign Bilingual Program have access to a wide range of co-curricular activities. Visual art, sports, dance and drama provide opportunities to:

develop new skills
engage with peers
express themselves creatively.

Our goal is to ensure that students have access to a well-rounded education. This stretches beyond academics to personal growth and social interaction.

Wellbeing

We understand that wellbeing is vital for a student’s growth and success. This encompasses physical, emotional, mental, and social health. Good wellbeing helps children learn, build resilience, and thrive at school.

We create an inclusive and accessible environment for students with sensory disabilities. We want them to flourish physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Our Pastoral Care policy follows the Australian Student Wellbeing Framework. This framework highlights five key elements:

leadership
inclusion
student voice
partnerships
support.

These elements help our school community build safe and positive relationships.

We also embrace the Be You Framework. This national initiative promotes mental health in children and young people. These frameworks give students a strong base for their learning and life goals.

We belong to an organisation that meets the diverse needs of staff, students, and families. Our services include:

whole school initiatives
student voice programs
anti-bullying policies
pastoral care.

We also offer support from interpreters, occupational therapists, psychologists, speech therapists, and physiotherapists. We partner with organisations like Deaf Connect to support our community.

In this program, we ensure each student feels safe and confident in school. We foster a sense of belonging and tailor support for mental and emotional wellbeing. We make sure our physical spaces are accessible to everyone. We work with families, staff, and supportive organisations to create a holistic support system. We promote independence, self-esteem, and resilience.

Our wellbeing approach recognises each student’s unique needs. We give them the tools and resources they need to succeed socially and academically. We want to create a school culture that celebrates diversity. Every student should feel seen, heard, and respected, no matter their sensory abilities.