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British Sign Language

British Sign Language

Level 1
Cheltenham Gloucester

Course Overview

Part Time
Certificate

Learners on this course are working towards the Signature level 1 Award in British Sign Language.

This is a 54 hour course, plus at least 30 hours for homework, and is designed to enable students to acquire a basic ability to communicate with deaf people about familiar topics and activities using sign language. Learners must have successfully completed the Introduction to BSL course or have passed an assessment prior to enrolling onto this course. Please contact the Languages department for further information. At the end of the course students should be able to:

  • Identify instructions and guidance from simple commonly used expressions
  • Take appropriate action on the basis of instructions and guidance received
  • Express themselves in British Sign Language (BSL)

All learners are required to take the three level 1 exams (101, 102 and 103). The tutor will provide assessment information. Please refer to www.signature.org.uk for more detailed information.

Learners are encouraged to attend local deaf associations to develop their skills. In order to be successful, learners should practise regularly outside the classroom. Please bring an A4 binder for handouts. Internet access and DVD playback facilities will be advantageous.

If numbers are low for both Cheltenham and Gloucester the groups will be merged into one. Classes will then take place on the campus closest to the majority of students. 

  • Learners should have successfully completed the `Introduction to British Sign Language' course. This is a rigorous course and time spent with the deaf community outside the classroom is highly recommended in order to achieve.
  • Students may progress to the Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language. Tutors can give advice on local centres offering level 2 courses.

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British Sign Language

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Many businesses work with companies abroad, or have branches in other countries. This gives speakers of multiple languages an advantage when it comes to working with larger companies and organizations.

We have courses in French, German, Spanish, and other languages for use in business and socializing. You might end up working for a global investment firm, or as a translator for the police!

Please note, all Language courses (excluding British Sign Language) are roll on courses, which involves students enrolling from one term to the next, building on the knowledge and skills learnt in the previous term. In exceptional circumstances and at the tutor’s discretion, it may be possible to join in-year, if there is already a foundation of language learning at the relevant level.

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