Recording a British Sign Language version of The 12 Days of Christmas has been just one of the achievements of deaf pupils at Eastbury Community School Additionally Resourced Provision (ARP), in Barking, Essex.

It was screened at the Globe Theatre in London as part of the Christmas at the (Snow) Globe production, written by and starring writer and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig. Eastbury staff and pupils received a standing ovation on the opening night.

The school also performed at the Chelmsford Cathedral Christmas Carol Concert for Deaf and Deafblind children, put on by the Royal Association for the Deaf (RAD).

Staff achievements include lead teacher Helen Devereux being elected to the British Association for Teachers of the Deaf executive committee, while Alex McMullan-Bell has published his first peer-reviewed paper allowing him to contribute to global research into deaf education.

Judge Vijita Patel noted how the school’s new Instagram and Twitter platforms (@ECSDeafARP) allow it to connect with students, parents and the wider local and global deaf community in a new and modern way.

She said: “The creative challenge curriculum ensures pupils excel as their place in the local, regional and national context is nurtured by exceptional community-based learning opportunities.

“The team’s advocacy promotes the visibility, understanding and acceptance of these talented pupils through their ownership of an active social media platform.”