A huge and heartfelt thank you to the Mayor of Haringey for inviting us to his parlour last Friday to celebrate the ‘What Makes You Happy’ card design competition. Klaudia, who created a stunning design for her competition entry, was chosen to represent Blanche Nevile Primary. Klaudia and her mother were invited to sit in the front row to enjoy a great view of the Mayor. When the Mayor arrived he confidently signed a special hello to Klaudia, before walking to the podium.
Towards the end of the Mayor’s speech he explained to the whole audience that Klaudia is deaf which is why Kathryn, our Acting Assistant Headteacher, was signing for her. The Mayor emphasised that all members of the community must be included and talked about the importance of BSL. For the rest of the afternoon, the Mayor insisted that everyone ‘clap’ the BSL way and Klaudia was delighted to climb up to the podium to brilliantly demonstrate the BSL wave to everyone, which was greeted with great enthusiasm.
Afterwards the Mayor told Klaudia that he would love to learn more BSL and we invited him back to visit Blanche Nevile whenever he wished. Klaudia then taught the Mayor how to sign ‘See you next Friday’ as the whole of Blanche Nevile Primary are joining in the Mayor of Haringey’s Charity Event – Laughter Yoga, to support mental health charities. We are certainly looking forward to a good giggle and we are so pleased that the Mayor of Haringey is a fan of BSL and so wonderful at sharing Deaf Awareness.
Perfectly apt for Sign Language Week!