We continue our focus on our founding members, this time looking at BATOD (British Association of Teachers of the Deaf).
Formed in 1976, BATOD is the sole association in the UK which represent teachers of deaf children and young people.
BATOD promotes the education of all deaf babies, children, young persons and adults and promotes the interests and status of all Teachers of the Deaf and members of allied professions. As well as representing teachers, a BATOD aim is also to encourage the development of the role of Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Communication Support Workers (CSWs) in supporting the work of Teachers of the Deaf.
All members shall belong to the main body of the Association. The membership offer includes:
- Specialist magazine publication (five editions per year)
- Deafness and Education International journal (four editions per year)
- Frequent newsletters
- Range of resources
- Peer to peer support and networking at local levels via the eight regional and national groups
- Range of CPD training opportunities provided through the local groups and a national event
- Representation on working groups, reference groups engaged with deaf education
- Platform for independent research whilst actively influencing agencies that govern policy and legislation relevant to Teachers of the Deaf.
As one of CACDP’s founding members, we got in touch with BATOD to gain some insight into their involvement almost forty years ago.
Teresa Quail, Co-National Executive Officer said “A fundamental constitutional aim of BATOD is to encourage and assist in the training of Teachers of the Deaf including mandatory qualification training and post-qualification continuing professional development. BATOD is pleased with the 40-year offer of targeted training and specialist CPD opportunities that Signature has provided to families, children and young people, professionals in deaf education and the wider professional body.”
