Free Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Braidwood Trust School for the Deaf, full-time during the day. The course teaches you to communicate with Deaf people using BSL across a range of everyday topics. You'll develop basic skills in both producing and understanding sign language. The course runs over one year. Entry depends on prior attainment, and the centre will assess this before you start.
Who this course is for
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.
Entry requirements
This course is being run in the academic year 2021-2022 but there is no guarantee that it will run in future years. Entry to the course will depend on the deaf student’s prior attainment.
What you will learn
You'll learn to sign on a range of everyday topics using simple, clear BSL.
You'll develop your ability to produce signs accurately and fluently.
You'll build your skills in receiving and understanding BSL from others.
You'll gain an introduction to Deaf culture and communication norms.
You'll practise real conversations using basic BSL vocabulary and grammar.
How you will learn
You'll learn through face-to-face classes at the centre. Teaching is hands-on, with practical signing activities throughout. Assessment for the Level 1 Award in British Sign Language is based on your ability to produce and receive BSL, assessed through practical tasks. The centre will give you full details of assessment requirements before you begin.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Braidwood Trust School for the Deaf will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Communication support worker: assist Deaf people in education or community settings.
Deaf support assistant: support Deaf students in schools or colleges.
Healthcare receptionist or frontline staff: communicate with Deaf patients using BSL.
Customer service advisor: serve Deaf customers in public-facing roles.
Teaching assistant: support Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils in the classroom.
What you could study next
Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language: the natural next step, building on your Level 1 skills with more complex BSL conversations and vocabulary.
Level 1 Award in Deaf Awareness and Communication: broadens your understanding of Deaf culture and communication tactics alongside your BSL study.
Level 3 qualifications in BSL or communication support open doors to more specialist roles working with Deaf people in education, health, or social care.
