Professionals: Hearing Team
At a glance
Who we support
Children and young people with hearing loss from diagnosis up to age 25, including sensorineural, conductive, mixed, unilateral and bilateral hearing loss.
What we offer
- Specialist assessments of hearing, communication and learning needs
- Bespoke advice, guidance and training for school staff
- Support with classroom acoustics and reasonable adjustments
- Direct teaching sessions from Qualified Teachers of the Deaf (where appropriate)
- Assistive Listening Device (ALD) advice and leasing options
- Reports for SEND processes, including Early Help and EHCP contributions
- Multi‑agency working with Audiology, SaLT, Health Visitors and others
- Early years home/nursery visits and family support
- Support with Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) at university
How we work
We use the NATSIP Eligibility Framework, specialist assessments, observations and discussions with families and staff to determine the right level of support and ensure fairness across Bolton.
Referrals
We accept medical referrals only following a confirmed hearing loss. If concerns arise, parents should contact their GP or give permission for a school nurse referral.
About Us
Thomasson Memorial Sensory Support Service (Hearing) is based at Thomasson Memorial School. We support children and young people with hearing loss across Bolton from diagnosis through to age 25.
Our Teachers of the Deaf (ToDs) are experienced classroom teachers who hold the mandatory post‑graduate qualification required to teach deaf learners.
- Bolton SEND Local Offer
- Local Offer (alternative access)
- Training as a Qualified Teacher of the Deaf
Services Offered
1) Assessing hearing and learning needs
We support pupils with a wide range of hearing profiles, including:
- Sensorineural, conductive and mixed hearing loss
- Hearing loss levels from mild (21–40 dB) to profound (95 dB+)
- Loss affecting low, mid or high frequencies
To make informed decisions about support, we use:
- Specialist language and communication assessments
- The NATSIP Eligibility Framework
- Observations of academic and social participation
- Discussions with staff and families
Examples of assessments used:
- New Reynell Developmental Language Scales
- British Picture Vocabulary Scale
- Assessment of Comprehension and Expression
- Test for Reception of Grammar (TROG)
2) Tailored advice, guidance and staff training
- Strategies to support academic and social development
- Advice on improving classroom acoustics
- Daily listening checks and equipment management
- Whole‑staff INSET (e.g., Deaf Awareness)
- Targeted training for key staff on technology and communication strategies
3) Direct teaching from a Qualified Teacher of the Deaf
Where needed, a ToD may deliver focused sessions on:
- Speech development
- Language and vocabulary
- Communication skills
- Curriculum access
4) Setting SMART Targets
In line with the SEND Code of Practice (2014), we work with SENCOs and staff to set SMART, measurable targets for pupils on SEN Support.
5) Reports and contributions (Early Help, EHCP)
We contribute to Early Help Assessments and EHCP requests where needs exceed those met by SEN Support.
For pupils not requiring Early Help or an EHCP, we provide an Annual Report each academic year.
6) Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
We advise on suitable ALDs and offer a leasing scheme. Schools may also choose to purchase devices independently. Your ToD will help assess compatibility and ensure effective use.
7) Multi‑agency working
We work closely with Paediatric Audiology, SaLT, Health Visitors, early years settings, schools, colleges and organisations such as NDCS and Home‑Start.
8) Early Years: support for babies and toddlers
On diagnosis, families are referred to us. We visit homes, nurseries and childminders to support early communication development. Progress is monitored using Success from the Start.
9) Support for students at university
We support young people with Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) assessments and advise universities on reasonable adjustments and accessible teaching practices.
Referral to the Service
We accept medical referrals only. If you have concerns about a pupil’s hearing:
- Parents should be advised to see their GP, or
- Schools may request permission to refer to the school nurse
If hearing loss is confirmed, a Health Professional will refer the child or young person to the Sensory Support Service.
Contact details are available in the website footer.