British Sign Language (BSL) was recognised by the government as a language in its own right in March 2003. The BDA (British Deaf Association) suggests that BSL is the first or preferred language of over 87,000 Deaf people in the UK. BSL is a visual-gestural language, with its own grammar and principles, which are completely different from the grammatical structure of English.

We are accredited through Signature, the leading awarding body for British Sign Language in the UK, and we offer qualifications in British Sign Language currently at Level 1 and 2.These qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and ensure the quality of learning demonstrated will meet the requirements of the UK Occupational Language standards for each level.

Our qualifications are designed to teach learners to communicate effectively with Deaf people. As a student progresses through each level, they will gain competency and skill in the production and reception of BSL. As a student progresses further, they will also begin to develop an advanced knowledge of the structure and function of British Sign Language as well as an understanding of the Deaf community and Deaf culture.

Each level has its own qualification structure, aims, objectives and essential requirements. You can find information on all of this in the qualifications sections. As a Signature approved centre we will deliver the qualification over an agreed timescale; it is also our responsibility to ensure that the entry requirements of the level have been met before accepting a candidate. Therefore, we may ask you to provide evidence of prior learning or existing qualifications, as appropriate to the level you wish to enrol for.