Our kaiako, June Brunton, champions truly inclusive education for all New Zealanders. As we celebrate NZ Sign Language Week, it's a perfect time to look at the opportunities of embracing Deaf talent and making simple communication efforts. June explains that even small steps to inclusion can unlock huge opportunity in our workplaces. 

Embracing more talent is a win-win

When it comes to hiring, June's message is straightforward: "If the person suits the job, Deaf shouldn't be a barrier". She encourages businesses to embrace that mindset and move beyond outdated misconceptions. 

Many employers might hesitate and wonder about the practicalities. However, June clarifies that there is plenty of support. For example, funding is available for interpreters at important meetings or ongoing training. This can be through agencies or sometimes through an individual's own support funding. In other words, there's no cost that should deter businesses. The key, June advises, is simply a bit of pre-planning to book interpreters when needed. The success stories speak for themselves, like June's own son, who is Deaf and thriving in a fully hearing, yet wonderfully supportive, work environment.

Simple actions can create powerful connections

Even the smallest efforts to use NZSL can have an outsized effect and mean a lot. June shares a heartwarming example of a shop assistant using some basic signing that made all the difference to her two Deaf daughters during a shopping trip. It changed their whole day and mine too!" 

June encourages everyone to give NZSL a go, reassuring us that "Deaf people don't take offence. They will embrace your efforts. There's no need to feel embarrassed about making mistakes; the willingness to connect is what truly matters. 

If you're keen to learn, online NZSL courses are easy to find. They range from short introductory sessions to more comprehensive programmes.

Beyond formal signing, June reminds us of other simple yet effective communication tools. Using phones for texting or simply having a pen and paper handy can easily bridge communication gaps. "Think about how else you can communicate," she advises, emphasising that Deaf individuals are often "just as nervous as you are" when navigating new communication dynamics.

Education Unlimited personalises learning for every individual 

At Education Unlimited, June's philosophy is about adaptability and understanding individual needs. "You have to find out which is the best way for each person or group," she explains. This personalised approach applies whether learners are Deaf, English Second Language (ESOL) speakers, or neurodiverse individuals. This commitment to tailored support is fundamental to helping every learner "reach their full potential".

We must move beyond awareness to create lasting, inclusive change

As NZSL Week shines a spotlight on the Deaf community, June urges businesses to take lasting action: "Don't discount deaf people in employment". If employers are unsure about any aspect of hiring or supporting Deaf staff, she advises them to ask. "Deaf Aotearoa and other organisations are ready to help if you're unsure about something regarding employing or costs".

June has loved watching positive shifts in awareness as her children have grown up. There's been a change, which is good. There needs to be a lot more acceptance, too. Building genuinely inclusive workplaces is an ongoing journey of learning, adaptation, and empathy. And its rewards are well worth it: we all benefit when we empower people, enrich workplaces, and strengthen communities across Aotearoa."

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