A PROFOUNDLY deaf teacher committed to improving communication and access for all deaf people was named Wales Teacher of the Year at a recent award ceremony.

Gaye Hampton, who teaches British Sign Language (BSL) qualifications at Newport’s Sign Language Studies Centre, won the accolade at the 2012 Signature Annual Awards.

Judges said she was dedicated to reducing communication barriers for the deaf community, which often mean she gives up her own time to provide extra support to students who may be finding their course difficult or who are not progressing as they would like.

They said Mrs Hampton strives to be open and honest with all learners to ensure they continue to develop throughout their studies, and as a result of her approach learners take great pride in their achievements.

Outside of class Mrs Hampton, of Abersychan, Pontypool, supports pupils by arranging monthly meetings where students can meet, improve their signing and receptive skills, and promote the Sign Language Studies Centre and BSL.

She also arranges class trips and has set up a group, which helps the centre’s trainee interpreters to become better and more efficient.

The centre is the only one to offer sign language interpreter training in the area.

Mrs Hampton has been shortlisted for the national awards in November.