At Silent Sounds, we believe that language should never be a barrier to learning and that every child must have equal access to education.  In today’s diverse UK, there is a continuing upward trend in pupils recorded as having English as an Additional Language. Approximately 21.4% of pupils in reception are recorded as having English as an Additional Language (EAL). This is an increase of 0.6% from 2023/24.  These integration of children from other countries into the UK school system poses an enormous challenge on teachers where in some cases, they are having to cope with pupils that speak as many as 20 languages.

Transforming the classroom experience with translation and interpreting services

Aside from marking celebratory cultural days, weaving in translations and face-to-face interpreters into the ongoing curriculum will comfort children enabling them to learn more effectively in an inclusive and equitable environment.

Without this supporting service, UK schools’ non-English speaking pupils will feel isolated and may even get left behind as language presents itself as an impermeable obstacle. Fear of not understanding or being misunderstood results in less engaged students, hindering their academic potential.  This has a knock-on effect with families struggling to participate in important conversations about their child’s education, and schools may face challenges in ensuring that information is clearly understood by everyone.

Language barriers in education

Children who are Deaf or whose first language is not English often face systemic challenges that hinder their ability to fully participate in school life. These challenges extend beyond the classroom to include parent-teacher communication, access to school policies, and participation in extracurricular activities. Without adequate support, these students can quickly fall behind their peers academically, socially, and emotionally.

In a system that values equal opportunity, no child should be left behind due to a language or hearing barrier. This is where Silent Sounds steps in.

Dedicated interpreting services for the education sector

At Silent Sounds, we provide flexible, responsive, and secure interpreting and translation services designed specifically for educational settings. With over two decades of experience supporting schools, universities, and academy trusts across the UK, we understand the unique linguistic and cultural challenges faced by both educators and students.

Our education-focused services include:

Document translation: School policies, learning materials, newsletters, and safeguarding information all translated with precision and cultural sensitivity.

Interpreting services: Face-to-face, telephone, and video interpreting for parent-teacher meetings, SEN reviews, and school events.

Certified translations: Support for students and families applying for higher education or handling official documentation.

Transcription & subtitling: Multilingual video or audio content with transcription and captioning, especially useful for Deaf students and families who rely on visual communication.

How we embrace inclusivity for non-English and Deaf learners

Our services are more than just linguistic translations, they are tools for inclusion. For non-English speaking children, understanding their learning materials in their native language allows them to grasp concepts more easily and participate actively in class. For Deaf students, accessible content and BSL (British Sign Language) interpreting ensures they are equally engaged in their education.

Seamless access to trusted interpreting and translation support

We offer a 24/7, 365 days per year online booking portal for easy service access.

Emergency appointments within 24 hours for urgent needs.

Strict confidentiality and enhanced DBS checks for all linguists.

Certified and highly qualified professionals, including native-speaking translators and registered interpreters.

Each translator or interpreter working with us holds relevant qualifications such as the Diploma in Translation, Degree in languages, or full membership in leading industry bodies like the Institute of Translation and Interpreting or the Chartered Institute of Linguists.

Why schools and trusts choose Silent Sounds

With over 250 languages covered, including Arabic, Polish, Mandarin, Urdu, and BSL, where we are highly revered amongst the Deaf community with our dedicated inhouse Deaf services team known for their first-name personable approach.

Award-winning linguists with in-depth educational sector expertise.

Tailored solutions that are accurate, culturally appropriate, and aligned with UK education standards.

Join us in creating equal opportunities for every learner

Inclusivity starts with understanding. We are proud to play a key role in breaking down language and communication barriers in education. By partnering with us, you are not only meeting regulatory requirements, but you are also creating a school culture that embraces every child, regardless of their language or hearing ability.

Contact our friendly team today to get started! info@silent-sounds.co.uk