University to highlight deaf support at festival

‘Deaffest’, to be held at the Light House, Wolverhampton, between May 17-19, brings together the deaf community from around the world and is seen as the UK’s leading deaf film and arts festival.

Representatives from the University will be attending the festival on Saturday 18 May to highlight the work the institution has put into supporting its deaf and hard of hearing students over the past 20 years, as well as promoting its BA (Hons) Video and Film Production course.

Opportunities will be available for prospective students to meet Tracy McCoy, course leader of the Video and Film Production course, current deaf students at the University, as well as support staff from the University’s Student Enabling Centre (SEC).

Speaking on behalf of SEC, Grace Peddie said: “I’m delighted to be representing the University at the prestigious ‘Deaffest’. I’ll be telling people about the support we provide, and supplying information about the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). 

“We’ll also have two of our deaf students with us who will be talking about their experiences at the University, and of using the support we provide to them.

“The University has supported over 200 deaf and hard of hearing students studying on a wide range of degree courses over the last 20 years, including courses such as Video and Film Production. 

“The Student Enabling Centre provides a comprehensive range of services to students with sensory, physical or specific learning difficulties. Our aim is to ensure that each student's experience at the University of Wolverhampton is enjoyable and rewarding.”

The University of Wolverhampton’s successful deaf alumni includes Brian Duffy, freelance film director, and Gordon Hay, UK Deaf Sport co-ordinator. The University is committed to supporting students based on their requirements, providing a wide range of services including electronic and manual note-takers, qualified British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, specialist support tutors, facilitators, mentors, study buddies, and more.

More information about ‘Deaffest’.

ENDS

For more information please contact Patrick Campbell in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322448

Date Issued: Tuesday 14 May 2013