Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College, part-time during the day, over 30 weeks. No prior knowledge of BSL is needed. You'll need sufficient manual dexterity, sight, and facial movement to produce and receive signs. The course covers everyday conversations, giving and following simple directions, and describing familiar topics in BSL. These level 1 british sign language classes are a solid introduction to the language.
Who this course is for
**This course may be free if you earn less than £25,000p.a. Other learners may receive a 50% fee reduction. In addition, we will fully fund up to two learners per course who are deaf or hearing impaired.** This course is for anyone who wishes to be able to communicate in BSL to cover everyday topics. You will learn how to take part in everyday conversations in BSL, to give and follow simple directions or instructions in BSL, and to follow descriptions around familiar topics.
Entry requirements
No prior knowledge is required for this Level 1 Award course.Student will need to have sufficient manual dexterity, sight and facial movement to produce and receive BSL.
What you will learn
You'll take part in everyday conversations in BSL.
You'll give and follow simple directions and instructions in BSL.
You'll follow and produce descriptions around familiar topics.
You'll build a working vocabulary for common, everyday situations.
You'll develop the handshapes, facial expressions, and body language that BSL relies on.
How you will learn
You'll learn through face-to-face classroom sessions at Derby College. Teaching focuses on practical signing, with activities that build your ability to communicate in BSL across everyday situations. Assessment is based on your ability to produce and receive BSL, covering the topics taught during the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Derby College 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.
Care assistant - support deaf or hearing-impaired clients in care roles.
Teaching assistant - support deaf pupils in schools and colleges.
Customer-facing roles - serve deaf customers in retail, hospitality, or public services.
Receptionist or administrator - work in settings that support deaf service users.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language - the next step in your british sign language qualification, covering more complex conversations and a wider vocabulary.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language - for those aiming to use BSL in professional or community settings.
BSL Interpreting courses - longer-term routes for those who want to work as a qualified BSL interpreter.