CARING students are taking part in special sign language classes – after asking their school to put them on the timetable.

Young people at Rivington and Blackrod High School's sixth form are now having sign language lessons as part of enrichment courses which are designed to develop them as citizens.

They told teachers they want to break down barriers and help create one society.

Jane Mc Donough, assistant head of sixth form, said: "The students had often asked for sign language to be part of the Wednesday's afternoon enrichment activities. We had 43 students apply for 20 places, it was very popular, so we decided to put on two classes. I am exceptionally proud of the pupils for asking the course to put on and wanting to try to overcome the barriers people face in society . This course has helped them become more mature and understanding.

"We had students on the triple health and social care course, students studying physics, those wanting to go into medicine, audiology in which sign language would help their careers. Students were asking why are there still these barriers up in the 21st century."

The students underwent a six week British Sign Language enrichment programme delivered by D.E.A.F – Deaf Education Advocacy Fellowship - after which they received a certificate and some are going on to do a more advanced course.

Student Georgia Whittle, aged 17, said: “In our BTEC health and social care we have studied a communication unit, this course has given me an awareness of the barriers that a hearing impaired person can experience, and has helped me.”

The teenagers say a more inclusive society can be created if more people if sign language became second nature to more people.

Ethan Graham, aged 16, added: “I am studying Information Communication Technology and took sign language as part of that, but now I want to go on and do an advance course. I have really enjoyed it and have found it interesting.

“I would use it.”