Seen Not Heard – Newham School For The Deaf Screening + Exhibition

Welcome to our celebratory event exploring the history of deaf education in Newham and recounting the memories of former school children called Seen Not Heard (referring to the 15th century saying by a clergyman, John Mirk that ‘children should be seen not heard’ which can be taken literally for deaf children that sign and don’t speak).

We shall kick off with introductions by deaf school children past and present whilst highlighting their work displayed in the exhibition alongside archival material from Newham Archives and elsewhere.

From there, a screening of a short documentary focussing on the Newham School for the Deaf which has since been replaced by Tunmarsh School (Pupil Referral Unit) and Tunmarsh Centre (for Hearing Services).

This will be followed by a screening of Name Me Lawand with a panel of guest speakers that can relate to the themes and share lived experiences.

Synopsis

Five-year-old Lawand is on a quest to find a world where there are people like him – people who will understand him. Since birth, Lawand has been profoundly deaf and unable to communicate with those around him. He undertakes a treacherous journey with his family from Iraq to Derby, home of the Royal School for the Deaf. But this new life soon comes under threat when the family faces deportation. Along with members of the Derby community, they begin a new quest – a fight to stay in the place they now call home.

BSL interpreters and refreshments provided.

Agenda

4.00pm – 4.30pm: Exhibition + Intro
4.30pm – 5.00pm: Speeches + Film Screening (Newham School of the Deaf Short Documentary – 15mins)
5.00pm – 6.30pm: Film Screening (Name Me Lawand Feature Documentary – 1hr 29mins)
6.30pm – 7.15pm: Panel discussion and reminiscence with former Newham Deaf school children, educators and organisations
7.15pm – 7.30pm: Wrap up and exit venue