Free Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Haringey. Classes run at Capital City College Tottenham Campus on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8.30pm. The course runs over 39 weeks, so you can fit study around work or other commitments. You'll learn how British Sign Language is structured and build the skills to hold everyday conversations with Deaf people. The course covers three units: an introduction to BSL, conversational BSL, and communication about everyday life. No previous BSL experience is needed. You'll need sufficient sight, manual dexterity, and facial and body movement to produce and receive BSL.
Who this course is for
Our British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 Award is the perfect course to start your BSL journey. This beginner's award offers an introduction to how British Sign Language is structured and supports you in learning to communicate with the Deaf community in BSL.
Entry requirements
The BSL Level 1 qualification is ideal for anyone who wants to learn basic language skills to communicate with Deaf People, whether they plan to progress to a more advanced BSL level or not. The Level 1 Award in British Sign Language can be undertaken by anyone and doesn't require any previous experience. BSL competence standards stipulate that learners need to have sufficient sight, manual dexterity, and facial and body movements to produce and receive BSL.
What you will learn
You'll understand and use a limited range of simple words and sentences in BSL.
You'll take part in simple, everyday conversations in BSL.
You'll give and follow simple directions and instructions in BSL.
You'll give and follow simple, familiar statements and descriptions in BSL.
You'll use appropriate facial expressions and gestures to support your communication.
You'll learn how British Sign Language is structured as a language.
How you will learn
Classes are held in person at the Tottenham Campus one evening per week. You'll learn through practical, face-to-face sessions with a tutor and other learners. Assessment is based on your ability to produce and receive BSL communication, covering the three course units. Your tutor will confirm the assessment format at enrolment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Capital City College Tottenham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Communication support worker: assist Deaf people in education or care settings.
BSL interpreter (trainee route): a starting point toward professional interpreting qualifications.
Teaching assistant: support Deaf or hearing-impaired pupils in school.
Care assistant: communicate more effectively with Deaf service users.
Customer-facing roles: serve Deaf customers in retail, hospitality, or public services.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language: the natural next step after Level 1, covering more complex conversations and a wider vocabulary.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language: moves toward professional-level BSL use and is a step on the route to interpreter training.
NVQ or Diploma in Communication Support: for those working toward a career supporting Deaf people in education or care.
