Level 1 British Sign Language Course in Wallsend. Classes run at Swans Centre for Innovation, part-time during the day. Fees may apply depending on your circumstances, though discounts are available for some learners. The course runs over 20 weeks and teaches you to communicate in BSL in everyday situations. You'll start from scratch or build on an introductory Sign Language course you've already done. British sign language classes cover vocabulary, grammar, and the skills to hold real conversations with deaf people. You'll need sufficient sight, manual dexterity, and facial and body movement to produce and receive BSL.
Who this course is for
If you would like to communicate with deaf people in everyday situations using British Sign Language this course is a good place to start. It's suitable for you if you are completely new to BSL or moving from a Sign Language introductory course. You may be the parent, family member, friend or colleague of someone who is deaf, work on the front line of a service that comes into regular contact with deaf people or perhaps have an interest in a career in BSL/English interpreting. This course will build your skills for both producing and receiving BSL.
Entry requirements
You'll need sufficient sight, manual dexterity and facial and body movement to produce and receive BSL.
What you will learn
You'll learn BSL vocabulary for everyday topics and situations.
You'll develop BSL grammar and sentence structure.
You'll practise signing clearly using handshapes, facial expression, and body movement.
You'll learn to receive and understand BSL from others.
You'll build conversational skills to communicate with deaf people in common situations.
You'll gain awareness of Deaf culture and community.
How you will learn
You'll learn through face-to-face classes at Swans Centre for Innovation. Sessions are interactive and practical, with a strong focus on using BSL in conversation. Assessment is through practical demonstration of your signing skills. You'll be assessed on your ability to communicate in BSL in everyday situations, showing the vocabulary, grammar, and expression covered during the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Swans Centre for Innovation will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Communication support worker. Assist deaf people in education or work settings.
Deaf support worker. Provide day-to-day support to deaf individuals.
Teaching assistant. Support deaf or hearing-impaired pupils in school.
Customer-facing roles in public services. Communicate with deaf service users.
Healthcare receptionist or support worker. Welcome and assist deaf patients.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in British Sign Language. The natural next step, developing your fluency and range in BSL.
Level 3 Award in British Sign Language. Moves toward professional-level BSL use and is a step toward BSL/English interpreter training.
NVQ or Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning. Useful if you want to use BSL in an education setting.
