Free Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby Adult Learning Service at Allen Park Centre, part-time during the day. No previous BSL experience is needed to join. The course runs from October 2026 to June 2027, with 63 hours of classroom learning in small groups of 12 to 14 learners. You'll learn to communicate with Deaf people using BSL across a range of everyday topics, covering both producing and understanding sign language.
Who this course is for
Level 1 Award in British Sign Language can be taken without any previous BSL experience. This qualification allows learners to gain basic skills and
confidence in understanding BSL as well as producing it.
Entry requirements
This qualification is designed to teach learners to communicate with Deaf people in British Sign Language (BSL) on a range of topics that involve simple, everyday language use.
They will gain basic skills and confidence in production and reception of BSL. There will be 65 guided learning hours in the classroom. The qualification specification has been designed using the UK Occupational LanguageStandards 2010 at Level 1.
What you will learn
You'll learn to understand and produce British Sign Language at a basic level.
You'll communicate with Deaf people on everyday topics using simple language.
You'll develop skills in BSL reception, reading signs made by others.
You'll practise BSL production, making signs clearly and accurately.
You'll use facial expression and body movement as part of BSL communication.
You'll build conversational BSL skills through three structured units.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Allen Park Centre, with a tutor guiding you through three assessed units: BSL 101 Introduction to BSL, BSL 102 Conversational BSL, and BSL 103 Communicate in BSL about Everyday Life. Assessment is competency-based. Your tutor will assess whether you have reached the required standard after Unit 101 before you progress. You must be available for all exam dates. Assessment fees for the three units are payable in Term 1.
What you will need to bring
Bring a notepad, a pen, and a ring binder to organise your work. Derby Adult Learning Service at Allen Park Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Communication support worker, helping Deaf people in services and appointments.
Teaching assistant, supporting Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils in school.
Care assistant, working with Deaf clients in health or social care settings.
Customer service adviser, in organisations serving Deaf customers.
Interpreter trainee, a first step toward professional BSL interpreting.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language. The natural next step after Level 1. Builds on your conversational BSL and prepares you for more complex communication.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language. Moves toward professional-level BSL use and is a step toward interpreter training programmes.
NVQ or Diploma in Health and Social Care. Useful if you want to use your BSL skills in a care or support role.
