Qualifications

Our BSL Courses and Qualifications at Signature

Are you looking to learn British Sign Language (BSL) or enhance your communication skills? At Signature, we are proud to be the  UK’s leading awarding body for Deaf communication and language qualifications. With over 40 years of experience, our award-winning BSL courses empower learners to build confidence, gain recognised qualifications, and support the Deaf community. 

Whether you’re a complete beginner or working towards professional British Sign Language interpreting qualifications, we have BSL courses and classes for you. Find your local Signature Approved Centre, and start learning British Sign Language in a nurturing, rewarding, and empowering environment.

Why choose Signature for your BSL journey?

We’re a trusted name in BSL education thanks to our commitment to providing high-quality courses. Our BSL qualifications are widely recognised, allowing learners to make a real difference in communication accessibility. 

By choosing Signature, you can benefit from:

  • Expert-approved qualifications
  • Practical and engaging learning experiences
  • Dedicated learner resources
  • Opportunities to make a positive impact

Read on for a concise overview of our different BSL courses, and learn more about each BSL qualification’s specifications.

Our BSL courses and qualifications

Our classes and courses are equally informative and rewarding — perfect for anyone looking to learn British Sign Language. Start with foundational skills and progress to more advanced levels in a supportive environment.

British Sign Language Level 1 Award

The Level 1 Award is an entry-level qualification for anyone looking to start their BSL journey. It focuses on everyday communication and basic signing skills.

Who is it for?

Beginners or anyone interested in learning the basics of BSL.

How is it taught?

  • Face-to-face learning (including Zoom/Teams)
  • Individual or group tutorials
  • Feedback and observed practice
  • Assessments

What’s covered?

The BSL Level 1 Award is split into three units: Introduction to BSL, Conversational BSL, and Communication in BSL about Everyday Life.  For more details, see the full qualification specification

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Understand and use simple words and sentences in BSL
  • Make simple, everyday conversations in BSL
  • Give and follow simple directions or instructions in BSL
  • Give and follow simple statements or descriptions in BSL

Learn more about the BSL Level 1 Award.

British Sign Language Level 2 Certificate

This intermediate qualification builds on Level 1, focusing on longer and more advanced conversational skills in everyday and work-related settings.

Who is it for?

Those who have completed Level 1 or can demonstrate competence in BSL at Level 1.

How is it taught?

  • Guided learning
  • Private study
  • Homework
  • Feedback or observed practice
  • Assessment

What’s covered?

The full Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language consists of three units: BSL Receptive Skills, BSL Productive Skills, and BSL Conversational Skills. Three themes must also be completed. For more details, see the full qualification specification

The BSL Level 2 Certificate includes:

  • Participating in longer and more detailed conversations
  • Expressing opinions and preferences
  • Learning several regional variations in BSL
  • Understanding and using a wider range of vocabulary
  • Engaging in discussions about work, school, and leisure activities

Learn more about the BSL Level 2 Certificate.

British Sign Language Level 3 Certificate

Aimed at more advanced BSL learners or learners who demonstrate competence in BSL at Level 2, this British Sign Language course will help you develop fluency and introduce more formal communication skills. This qualification is equivalent to Modern Foreign Languages at AS and A2 Level.

Who is it for?

Intermediate learners or BSL professionals looking to expand their knowledge in BSL.

How is it taught?

  • Guided learning
  • Classroom-based teaching
  • Individual or group learning
  • Feedback or observed practice
  • Assessments

What’s covered?

Here’s a general overview of what learners of the Level 3 Certificate will focus on:

  • Developing an advanced knowledge of BSL structure and function
  • Understanding and using advanced grammar structures
  • Interpreting and conveying complex and detailed information.
  • Developing conversational skills for formal and informal settings

Learn more about the BSL Level 3 Certificate and see the full qualification specification.

British Sign Language Level 4 Certificate

Designed for advanced users, this qualification focuses on complex signing and understanding in informal and formal settings.

Who is it for?

This course is ideal for learners aged 19 and over who work with or want to work with Deaf people. This could include social workers, teachers of the Deaf, voluntary workers, workers within Deaf organisations and schools, and anyone who demonstrates competence in BSL at Level 3.

How is it taught?

  • Guided learning hours
  • Private study
  • Homework
  • Practice
  • Assessment

What’s covered?

The BSL Level 4 Certificate includes six topics and three assessments: Extended Sign Language Linguistics, Understanding extended BSL in Work and Social Situations, Using BSL in Work and Social Situations, and Introduction to Interpretation. For more details, see the full qualification specification.

The Level 4 Certificate includes:

  • Advanced conversational skills
  • Understanding and producing complex language structures
  • Engaging in discussions on abstract topics
  • Preparing for professional interpreting roles

Learn more about the BSL Level 4 Certificate.

British Sign Language Level 6 Certificate

This high-level BSL qualification is equivalent to an undergraduate degree in BSL fluency.

Who is it for?

Aspiring advanced BSL interpreters or fluent users seeking professional certification.

How is it taught?

  • Guided learning
  • Independent study
  • Homework
  • Practice
  • Assessment

What’s covered?

The Level 6 BSL Certificate consists of eight topics. For more details, see the full qualification specification.

After completing the Level 6 Certificate, learners will be able to master:

  • Two-way BSL interactions like discussions, conversations, and debates
  • One-way BSL interactions like monologues and presentations

Learn more about the BSL Level 6 Certificate.

Additional sign language courses, classes, and qualifications

We’re also proud to offer a range of specialised courses beyond British Sign Language, designed to broaden your skills and deepen your understanding of communication within Deaf communities.

  • Irish Sign Language (ISL): Catering to the Deaf community in Ireland, ISL courses provide foundational and advanced skills in this distinct language.

  • Sign Language Interpreting and Translation: For those aspiring to become professional BSL interpreters, this Sign Language Interpreting and Translation qualification will equip you with the expertise to bridge communication gaps with ease. Learners will require proficiency equivalent to Level 6 in both languages relevant to the interpreting practice.

  • Deafblind Communication: Learn the specialised techniques required to support individuals with combined sight and hearing loss. Give the gift of clear and effective communication with our Deafblind Communication Qualification.

  • Deaf and Deafblind Awareness: This qualification will help you raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by Deaf and Deafblind individuals and learn how to foster inclusivity.

  • Communication Support: Enhance your ability to provide professional communication support in various contexts, focusing on accessibility, empathy, and understanding. 

Embark on your BSL journey with Signature

Our British Sign Language courses are available through Signature Approved Centres. Use our centre finder to locate your nearest BSL course provider and start studying with Signature.

If you have any questions or queries about our British Sign Language courses and qualifications, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.

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