A Deaf student from Exmouth has become the first person to sign a speech at Buckingham Palace when she went to collect her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Hafwen Clarke, 19, who studies and lives during term-time at the Deaf Academy says she was nervous before giving her speech to 2000 people, including Prince Edward.

She says: “When I was born people told my parents that I wouldn’t be able to achieve things because I was Deaf. Luckily my parents ignored them! I want to show everyone that being Deaf doesn’t mean you can’t follow your passions and dreams.”

The teenager describes the whole experience at Buckingham Palace as “amazing”, especially when Prince Edward signed “thank you” after her speech and when she met celebrity attendees, the astronaut Tim Peake and Harry from the band McFly.

She beams: “I’ve been getting lots of messages from all my friends and family saying how proud they are of me.”

Hafwen is originally from Aberystwyth where she enjoyed playing in the hockey team and became a St John’s Ambulance volunteer aged 10. 

She added: “I was quite shy and quiet when I started at St John’s Ambulance. But they were very supportive and I realised I could communicate by writing things down. You just need a pen and paper or to be able to send texts. Some people know a bit of basic BSL (British Sign Language) which helps.”

She embarked on her Duke of Edinburgh challenge three years ago, taking on the Gold level and physical endurance treks. 

On completing the scheme she said: “I’m really glad I did it,” she adds. “It boosted my confidence and proved I can do the same things as other hearing young people. Being Deaf does not have to be a barrier.”

Hafwen is now training to be a hairdresser at Exeter College, which partners with the Deaf Academy. The Academy is also providing Hafwen with sign language and wellbeing support as she trains.