A teacher recently asked IDK how to source a soundfield system for a child at their school. The system needed to be movable between classrooms.
Our first response was to ask if the school has any contact with the Visiting Teacher service for deaf students at the Department of Education (DES). If yes, the visiting teacher is the person who arranges the soundfield system on the school’s behalf, and who submits paperwork to the DES for funding.
If the school has not been assigned a visiting teacher, the principal can seek advice from their regional Special Educational Needs Officer (SENO) via the NCSE. Some schools use soundfield systems to provide good listening for all children and to protect the teacher’s voice from strain.
Schools can buy systems from their own fund at Bonavox on North Earl Street, Dublin, if wished. Freephone reception at 1800 480 480 for details.
Related Links:
- Soundfields Explained in IDK article, “Hearing On One Side Only”
- Hearing Assistance Entitlements For Deaf Children In Ireland
- Educational Supports For Deaf Children in Ireland
