A parent has told of their devastation at the news their deaf child’s school will close.

Hamilton Lodge School and College, a specialist deaf school in Brighton’s Walpole Road, announced on Thursday that it will close at the end of this academic year.

Paul Jackson, whose child goes to the school, said: “This is devastating news for all of the children and parents.

 “Local authorities and government promised to improve special educational needs and/or disability provision but here we are yet again fighting for our children’s right to an education and the support they need.

“We cannot simply let this happen without a fight.”

The school, which is part of the registered charity Hamilton Lodge Trust, said it will close next August 31 due to the decline in pupil numbers over time.

An announcement on its website says: “It is with great sadness that the trustees have announced that Hamilton Lodge School and College will close after 80 years of providing education for deaf students

“The trust will continue with its primary aim of supporting the deaf community in a format that will be decided after the stakeholder consultation ends in December 2024.”

READ MORE: City school will close by the end of the year

The charity the British Deaf Association (BDA) is urging the trust to have “a thorough review” to allow the “essential institution” to continue its vital work.

“As a historic institution that has provided specialist education to deaf students, Hamilton Lodge’s closure is a significant loss, particularly for deaf children and their families who depend on such language-rich, inclusive environments,” a spokeswoman for the BDA said.

“We strongly object to the closure of this school therefore it is crucial for the government to explore how Hamilton Lodge can continue to serve as a BSL-rich environment for deaf children.”

Brighton and Hove City Council said its specialist team for the deaf will be working with families affected.

 “I used to work at Hamilton Lodge and its closure is really heart-breaking. Over 80 years of deaf education is such a proud history,” said Councillor Emma Daniel, cabinet member for children and families.  

“I know that not only the current staff and pupils will be devastated but also the wider national deaf community. It was my time at Hamilton Lodge that led me as a councillor to get the city council to sign up to the BSL charter and we began working with deaf communities in earnest to improve access. Although the council is not involved with Hamilton Lodge, we recognise its closure will be a great loss for the area, as it caters for children from across the region as well as the city.

“Our specialist team for the deaf will be working closely with any families in Brighton and Hove who are affected to support them with their child’s education going forward and I look forward to working the charitable trust that will continue to deliver work with deaf people to ensure a fair and inclusive city.”