Spotlight on Talent – Julie Murray

Specialist Language Support Lecturer

During her 19 years at Walsall College, Julie Murray has enjoyed seeing many D/deaf students overcome adversity and go on to enjoy success in their chosen careers.  As a specialist language support lecturer, she has played her part in helping a significant number of these D/deaf students achieve.

“Some of our D/deaf students begin their college journey with no sign language skills then learn to sign and thrive in our environment,” said Julie.  Giving these learners the opportunity to study and integrate is hugely important.”

Julie studied her Certificate in Education at the college while becoming a specialist lecturer here.

She has taught English and maths from Entry 1 to Level 2 to students across all curriculum areas and provided one to one language support to D/deaf students.  Hearing students have also gained BSL Level 2 and 3 qualifications under her guidance, with some of these progressing into roles as BSL interpreters.

Julie says is proud of the remarkable learning journeys of her students and to be part of the Deaf Academy staff team.

“I genuinely feel included in everything that goes on around the college,” she continued.

With mandatory Deaf Awareness training being in place at the college, Julie is becoming more well known than ever by students and staff in and outside the Deaf Academy.

“Educating all students and staff in Deaf Awareness gives them an understanding of how they can be more accommodating and approachable around D/deaf people,” said Julie.

“The students I’ve taught or who have seen me in class giving support to others will greet me on the stairs or along corridors using BSL, which gives me a sense of belonging.

She added:“The Deaf Academy as a whole is well known for providing high quality support and being inclusive.  I’m honoured to be a positive role model for our deaf community and the college community as a whole.”