Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Richmond upon Thames. Classes run at Parkshot, on Wednesday afternoons or evenings, over 19 weeks. Before you enrol, you'll need to have completed an introductory BSL course of at least 10 weeks, and you must be 19 or over on 31st August before the course starts. A tutor will also assess you to confirm the level is right for you. You'll develop your ability to communicate in BSL across a range of everyday situations, and deepen your understanding of Deaf culture and language structure.
Who this course is for
Did you know that millions of people in the UK experience significant hearing loss? This British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 Award course offers a fantastic opportunity to learn a new language and connect with the Deaf community. You'll gain an introductory qualification in BSL, learning to communicate at a basic level in various settings. This course is perfect for anyone wanting to broaden their communication skills and make a positive impact.
Entry requirements
You must be 19 or over on 31st August prior to the course start date. You need to have completed an Introduction to British Sign Language course (usually 10 weeks duration minimum). You will be assessed by the tutor to ensure the course is suitable for you.
What you will learn
You'll communicate in BSL at a basic level across a range of everyday settings.
You'll use BSL to interact with Deaf family members, friends, and colleagues.
You'll develop your understanding of BSL as a language with its own grammar and structure.
You'll broaden your knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community in the UK.
You'll build vocabulary and signing skills introduced at Level 1.
How you will learn
You'll learn through face-to-face classes at Parkshot, with a tutor guiding you through signing practice and language skills in the classroom. Assessment is carried out by your tutor throughout the course to confirm you've met the requirements of the Level 1 British Sign Language qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Parkshot will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: assist Deaf or hard-of-hearing clients in care settings.
Teaching assistant: support Deaf pupils in schools or specialist units.
Customer service adviser: communicate with Deaf customers in retail or public services.
Community interpreter (trainee): a first step toward BSL interpreting roles.
Healthcare receptionist: welcome and assist Deaf patients in NHS or clinic settings.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language: the natural next step, building on Level 1 signing skills and widening the range of topics and settings you can communicate in.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language: moves toward more fluent, independent use of BSL and is often required for roles that involve regular BSL communication.
BSL/English Interpreter training: for those aiming to qualify as a professional interpreter, Level 3 is typically a prerequisite.
