* Communication approach: Some schools are primarily oral, some use British Sign Language (BSL), and some use a combination of both.
* Age range: Schools cater to different age groups, from early years to post-16.
* Curriculum and specialisms: Some schools excel in specific areas like arts, sports, or technology.
* Location and accessibility: The proximity of the school to your home and its accessibility for students with additional needs are crucial.
* Support services: The range of support services offered, including speech and language therapy, educational psychology, and social work.
To find the best school for a specific child, it's essential to:
* Research individual schools: Visit their websites and look at Ofsted reports (the UK's education inspection body).
* Contact the schools directly: Talk to staff and arrange visits to see the schools in action.
* Talk to current families: Hearing from parents of students attending the schools can provide invaluable insights.
* Consider the child's individual needs and preferences: Involve the child in the decision-making process, if appropriate.
Instead of trying to find the "best," focus on finding the *most suitable* school for the specific needs and circumstances of the child. The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) website can be a valuable resource in your research.