The Deaf Academy 5 years on.

Such an inspirational specialist school in the west country.

A recent visit to The Deaf Academy in Exmouth enabled The Clare Milne Trust’s trustees to see this inspirational organisation, 5 years after its opening, following its relocation from Exeter.  A beacon of excellence in Deaf education, the specialist support is tailored for young Deaf people aged 9 to 25, many living with additional needs such as autism or learning difficulties. The Academy exemplifies an inclusive environment, thoughtfully designed to the last detail around DeafSpace principles. It’s a very special place.

The school offers a fabulous safe environment with quality, purpose-built accommodation with spacious classrooms, modern residential facilities, and carefully designed environments that prioritise visual accessibility, natural light, and calm acoustics. These features allow students to engage fully in learning and social activities, aligned with the Academy’s bilingual ethos where every staff member is proficient in British Sign Language (BSL), with many Deaf staff members themselves – truly inspirational.

Their tailored curriculum supports development of both academic and valuable life skills, from specialised vocational training in professional kitchens to independent living skills—empowering students to thrive on their own terms, preparing for the future.

At the school’s heart is the Clare Milne Trust Atrium, a light-filled, welcoming space that functions as the vibrant social and communal hub. Following DeafSpace design, its wide corridors and clear sightlines allow students to communicate freely in BSL, creating an atmosphere of inclusion and community, inspiring an inclusive, joyful atmosphere captured most vividly in the Atrium’s central role. The space hosts assemblies, theatre performances, workshops, and informal gatherings, fostering connections between students, staff, families, and visitors alike.

Our trustees were delighted to see The Deaf Academy continue its vitally important work, supporting many young people from both Devon and Cornwall and many others from further afield. A great west country organisation.

The Deaf Academy