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Free Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Cheltenham

CostFREE
Duration8 months
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start13 Oct 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodySIGNAT
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Cheltenham. Classes run at Gloucestershire College Cheltenham Campus on evenings, so you can fit study around your week.

To enrol, you'll need to have completed an Introduction to BSL course or passed a relevant assessment. The course runs over 8 months and includes around 30 hours of independent study alongside weekly classes. You'll learn to communicate in BSL on everyday topics, build your vocabulary, and prepare for three formal assessments. Spending time with the Deaf community outside class is strongly recommended.

You'll finish with a Level 1 Award in British Sign Language.

Who this course is for

This accredited Level 1 Award in British Sign Language course is delivered weekly over the academic year, with learners expected to complete an additional 30 hours of independent study. It aims to enable learners to develop a basic ability to communicate with deaf people on familiar topics and everyday activities using sign language. To enrol, learners must have either successfully completed the Introduction to BSL course or passed a relevant assessment prior to enrolling.�Please contact Student Services for further information. At the end of the course learners should be able to:Identify instructions and guidance from simple commonly used expressionsTake appropriate action on the basis of instructions and guidance receivedExpress themselves in British Sign Language (BSL)All learners are required to take the three level 1 exams (101, 102 and 103). The tutor will provide assessment information. Please refer to www.signature.org.uk for more detailed information.Learners are encouraged to attend local deaf associations to develop their skills. In order to be successful, learners should practise regularly outside the classroom. Please bring an A4 binder for handouts.�If numbers are low for both Cheltenham and Gloucester the groups will be merged into one. Classes will then take place on the campus closest to the majority of students.�

Entry requirements

Learners should have successfully completed the Introduction to British Sign Language course. This is a rigorous course and time spent with the deaf community outside the classroom is highly recommended in order to achieve.

What you will learn

  • You'll understand simple instructions and commonly used expressions in BSL.
  • You'll respond to information and guidance given in sign language.
  • You'll express yourself clearly in BSL in everyday situations.
  • You'll build vocabulary on familiar topics and daily activities.
  • You'll develop the skills to hold basic conversations with Deaf people.
  • You'll prepare for and complete three Level 1 assessments (units 101, 102, and 103).

How you will learn

You'll attend weekly evening classes at Gloucestershire College Cheltenham Campus. Alongside classroom sessions, you'll complete around 30 hours of independent study throughout the year. Assessment is through three formal units: 101, 102, and 103. Your tutor will guide you through the assessment requirements during the course. Spending time with the Deaf community outside the classroom is strongly recommended to support your progress.

What you will need to bring

Gloucestershire College Cheltenham Campus will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • BSL interpreter, requires further study and professional qualifications beyond Level 1.
  • Teaching assistant, supporting Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils in school settings.
  • Support worker, assisting Deaf adults in community or care settings.
  • Customer service adviser, using BSL to communicate with Deaf customers.
  • Community support roles, working with Deaf organisations and charities.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Award in British Sign Language, the natural next step after Level 1, developing your signing skills further.
  • Level 3 Award in British Sign Language, for those aiming toward professional or interpreting roles.
  • BSL interpreter training, typically requires Level 6 study and professional registration; Level 1 is an early step on that path.
Apply on gloscol.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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