Deaf School in East Sussex Initiates Staffing Consultation Amidst Closure Plans

A deaf school located in East Sussex, which is scheduled for closure, has launched a consultation process. The purpose of this consultation is to explore methods for preserving “staff expertise” and either preventing or reducing the impact of potential redundancies. In September, Hamilton Lodge School and College in Brighton confirmed its intention to cease operations on 31 August 2025. This decision, made after 80 years of service, stems from a decrease in student enrollment. The school’s official website states: “The trust aims to continue with its primary aim of supporting future generations of deaf children.” The institution indicated its desire to receive input from “interested parties” concerning proposals for the ongoing provision and diversification of its services. Subsequent to the September announcement, the British Deaf Association expressed strong opposition to the planned closure. Parents also voiced worries regarding the closure, with one mother describing it as “catastrophic” for her daughter. A spokesperson representing the Hamilton Lodge Trust had previously stated: “Sadly, the challenging economic climate for the education sector and the decline of our student roll over a number of years has left our trustees with no option but to propose the closure of Hamilton Lodge School and College.” “Our school community is our priority, and we are liaising closely with the local authority to explore alternative arrangements for our students.”