September marks the start of a new school year, a time of sharpened pencils, fresh notebooks, and renewed focus on learning and social growth. Yet, for millions of children and adolescents, an invisible barrier stands in the way: impaired hearing. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over one billion young people worldwide are at risk of preventable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices, especially from personal audio devices and exposure to loud environments. This risk – alongside the needs of children born with congenital hearing loss who may require cochlear implants or other early interventions – makes hearing wellness a critical part of back-to-school readiness, on par with vision checks, vaccinations, and mental health support.
The European picture: a growing challenge
Focusing on Europe, the most recent numbers paint a complex but telling picture. Across 30 European countries, about 11.1% of the population – or 59 million people -self-report hearing loss. While hearing difficulties are commonly associated with ageing, hearing loss is also present among younger people. According to the EuroTrak reports in 2025, between 6–9% of those aged up to 14 years, and between 4-6% in the age group 15-24 suffer from hearing impairment. In the UK, for instance, around 8.3% of children up to 14 years, and 5.9% of the 15-24 age group report hearing loss. In Belgium, Germany and Portugal the figure is in a similar range.
These numbers underscore a reality: while Europe is improving in awareness and the provision of hearing care services – from screenings to professional support and hearing technologies – many citizens still live with untreated hearing loss, including young pupils whose educational journey is directly affected.
Why hearing health is critical for pupils
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) stresses that untreated hearing loss in children can cause delays in speech and language development, social isolation, and academic difficulties. In classrooms, where background noise and group discussions are the norm, even mild hearing loss can reduce a child’s ability to follow lessons, participate, and thrive.
Moreover, unaddressed hearing problems often lead to long-term disadvantages, from lower educational attainment to reduced employment opportunities. Early intervention – through hearing screening, proper care, and timely access to hearing aids or implants – has been shown to significantly improve not just health outcomes, but educational achievements as well.
The way forward: ackling hearing health together
The WHO calls hearing loss a “growing public health concern” but also highlights that it is largely preventable or treatable. Moving forward, a multi-pronged approach is key:
- Early screening and awareness
Mandatory school hearing screenings, combined with awareness campaigns for parents, teachers, and pupils, can help catch issues early. Normalising hearing checks alongside vision and dental care would reduce stigma and improve uptake. - Better access and reimbursement
The European data shows that coverage matters. Where hearing aids are free or well-reimbursed, uptake nearly doubles compared to systems with limited support. Policymakers must prioritise equitable access, ensuring that no child or family foregoes treatment because of cost - Safe listening habits
With headphones and earbuds now a constant companion for young people, education on safe listening – limiting volume and duration – is vital. The WHO recommends the “60-60 rule”: listening at no more than 60% of maximum volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time. - Destigmatising hearing aids
Among youth, stigma remains a major barrier. Schools, healthcare providers, and awareness campaigns should highlight hearing aids as tools for empowerment, not limitation. Modern devices are discreet, connected, and effective, helping pupils participate fully in both academic and social life.
Making hearing health a back-to-school priority
Hearing is the foundation of communication, learning, and social belonging. As pupils return to classrooms this September, hearing health must stand alongside other pillars of wellness. The numbers in Europe remind us that while millions already benefit from hearing care, too many still fall through the cracks. By expanding screening, improving reimbursement, promoting safe listening, and normalising hearing care, we can ensure that no pupil is left behind because they could not hear the lesson.
