This qualification is designed to teach learners to communicate with Deaf people in British Sign Language (BSL) on a range of topics that involve simple, every day language use. They will gain basic skills and confidence in production and reception of BSL.
The qualification is divided into tree units, each of which can be achieved separately. Learners who are new to BSL should cover 101 first, as units 102 and 103 build on this knowledge. Units 102 and 103 can be taken in any order. To achieve the full Level 1 Award In British Sign Language, candidates must pass all units.
At the end of the qualification, learners will be able to:
• Understand and use a limited range of simple words and sentences in BSL.
• Take part in simple, everyday conversations in BSL.
• Give and follow simple directions and instructions in BSL.
• Give and follow simple familiar statements or descriptions in BSL.
The full Qualification Specification can be found on the Signature website here.
Please note that all our courses require regular attendance as well as independent study time and completion of homework.
The cost of the course including exam fees and certificate is £530.00.
If you opt out of taking the exams, the cost without exam fees is £420.00. You can always decide to take and pay for the exams later.
We offer payment plans in exceptional circumstances for a small direct debit fee. Please contact us if you wish to arrange this. Once a payment plan has been agreed, please choose the option to pay a £100 non-refundable deposit at checkout to secure your place.
Please note that completing a BSL course requires time and commitment. Please ensure that you are available to attend all or most of the course dates, and that you will have time to complete homework and independent study.
Payment made for courses or training sessions is non-refundable. Refunds are only considered in exceptional circumstances and any such refunds are made at our discretion. Please note that we are unfortunately unable to offer pay-as-you-go subscriptions. Once your place on the course is confirmed, you will be liable to paying the full course fee including any outstanding instalments.
Please refer to our terms and conditions if you have any questions about this policy.
Weekly on Wednesdays, 18:30 - 20:30
30th September 2026 to 2nd July 2027
Location: Cambridgeshire Deaf Association,
8 Romsey Terrace, Cambridge CB1 3NH.
Weekly on Thursdays, 18:30 - 20:30
1st October 2026 to 8th July 2027
Location: The Thomas Alleyne Academy, High Street, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 3BE.
New course coming soon.
Location: Cambridgeshire Deaf Association,
8 Romsey Terrace, Cambridge CB1 3NH.
Weekly on Thursdays, 18:00pm – 20:00pm
24th September 2026 to 8th July 2027
Location: Room 2, Huntingdon Community Church, 83a High Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3DP.
If you are interested in a remote BSL Level 1 course, please contact us.
Location: Remotely via Zoom