Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Bristol. Classes run at Ashley Down Centre, part-time during the day. No previous experience of sign language is needed. The course runs over 18 weeks. You'll learn to communicate in BSL and build the foundation for working with deaf people. Alongside your british sign language classes, you'll commit to around 26 hours of practice in your own time to reinforce what you learn. This level 1 british sign language qualification is the first step toward a career in BSL and English interpreting.
Who this course is for
This Level 1 course is for people with no previous experience of learning sign language. It is also a suitable course for those people who have an interest in working with deaf people and is the first step to a career in BSL/English interpreting. It is essential that you commit to attending all classes and practise in your own time to reinforce your learning.
Entry requirements
This is a level 1 course - so no experience necessary.----Commitment to attending all classes--You will commit to a further 26 hours of private study and practise in your own time to reinforce what you have learnt--
What you will learn
You'll develop core BSL vocabulary and everyday signing skills.
You'll learn BSL grammar and sentence structure.
You'll practise communicating with deaf people in real conversations.
You'll understand Deaf culture and the role of the Deaf community in the UK.
You'll build the foundation skills needed for further BSL study and interpreting work.
How you will learn
You'll attend classroom-based sessions at Ashley Down Centre throughout the 18-week course. Learning is hands-on, with practice in class and a commitment to 26 hours of independent study and practice in your own time. Assessment is through practical demonstration of your signing skills, showing what you can communicate in BSL.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Ashley Down Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Communication support worker, helping deaf students in education settings.
BSL teaching assistant, supporting deaf pupils in schools.
Deaf support worker, assisting deaf adults in care or community services.
Customer service adviser, in organisations with BSL-accessible services.
Trainee BSL/English interpreter, working toward full interpreter qualifications.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language, the natural next step after Level 1, developing more complex signing and conversation skills.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language, for those working toward professional use of BSL in employment or community settings.
NVQ or specialist qualifications in BSL/English interpreting, for those aiming to work as a qualified interpreter.
