Hoxton’s Circus Space paves the way for deaf youngsters

Deaf children got a unique opportunity at the weekend to learn circus skills at one of Europe’s leading providers of circus education, paving the way in making creative arts accessible to disabled youngsters.

The group of 17 children and young people aged 8-16 honed their creative skills at Hoxton’s Circus Space, taking part in diablo, acrobatics, tight wire and aerial skills.

The free event was organised in partnership with the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) as part of their youth activities programme to enable deaf children to develop their confidence and social skills in a deaf-friendly environment.

Following the success of Circus Space’s Paralympic Opening Ceremony training programme, the school is beginning a circus programme for people with sensory and physical impairments.

Selene Burn, arts development officer at NDCS, said: “Unfortunately, deaf children are often excluded from arts, because arts providers simply don’t know how to support them – a barrier that can be easily overcome.

“Giving deaf children the chance to take part in any form of creative arts can help them develop their self-esteem, learn a new skill and explore the world around them.

“Deafness shouldn’t stop children from enjoying arts and with the right support, deaf children can achieve as much as other children.”

Circus Space hopes to roll out a programme of activities for disabled people of all stages, abilities and ages.