Professional Training Solutions
British Sign Language Training

British Sign Language Level 1 in Partnership with the Royal Association for Deaf people

London West Sussex

In partnership with the Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD), we are delighted to offer the opportunity for individuals who are deaf and BSL is their first language and for parents and carers of deaf people to learn British Sign Language (BSL) and achieve a recognised qualification. We are an approved centre with Signature, the UK’s leading awarding body for BSL.

British Sign Language Courses

Our dynamic and engaging online courses give you the opportunity to learn the beautiful language of BSL, exploring its culture, rich history, syntax, and different signs.

Our courses are taught by experienced and passionate deaf qualified tutors – the best way to learn BSL. Our BSL courses cater to learners of all levels, from beginners or those who are already on their journey.

Our British Sign Language courses are remote via Teams so you can learn the beauty of BSL and deaf culture in a way that best suits you.

Start learning with us today!

Course Overview

In partnership with:

LEVEL 1 

Unit 101 covers:

  • Meeting People
  • Using Numbers
  • Weather
  • Transport
  • Directions

Unit 102 covers:

  • Describing People, Objects & Animals
  • Interests & Activities
  • Food & Drink

Unit 103 covers:

  • Getting Around
  • Sharing Information
  • Weather

All of the units are assessed via a 5 minute recorded conversation with the BSL Trainer.

Within each theme are several topics that will be covered to expand learning and to be used in the assessments.

  • Unit 201 (Receptive) is assessed via a receptive clip, lasting for approx. 25 minutes.
  • Unit 202 (Productive) is assessed via a 3 – 5 minute presentation by the student to the BSL Trainer.
  • Unit 203 (Conversational) is assessed via a 6 – 7 minute conversation between the student and BSL Trainer.

Length of Course and Exams

Weekly online 3 hours over 15 weeks.

Eligibility Criteria

You must be:

  • Aged 19+.
  • Live in London or West Sussex.
  • Not on any other government funded training.
  • Your first or preferred language is BSL, or you are a parent or carer of deaf children/and or young people.
  • If Living in London, earning under £28,860 a year (unless you are the carer or parent of a deaf person).
  • If Living in West Sussex, earning under £28,800 a year (unless you are the carer or parent of a deaf person).
  • 3 year residency rules apply.

Next Steps

Interested, eligible and have the commitment to attend the whole course?

Please register your interest.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

BSL Level 1 at Professional Training Solutions is a nationally recognised beginner's qualification introducing you to the fundamentals of British Sign Language and Deaf awareness. You'll cover everyday vocabulary and practical communication across topics like introductions, family, directions, numbers, weather, food and hobbies, alongside an understanding of Deaf culture and communication within the Deaf community.

Funded BSL Level 1 is currently available for eligible adults aged 19+ LIVING in LONDON or WEST SUSSEX through our Adult Skills Fund (ASF) provision, subject to Greater London Authority funding rules. Priority is typically given to Deaf learners whose first language is BSL, and to parents, carers or family members of Deaf children. Deaf apprentices may also be able to take BSL as an approved alternative to Functional Skills English within their apprenticeship.

BSL Level 1 is delivered fully online through Zoom, with weekly 3 hour taught sessions over 15 weeks, plus online assessments and exams. Courses are taught by qualified Deaf tutors and experienced BSL specialists. As BSL is a visual language, you'll need a reliable internet connection and a device with a working camera and microphone to take part.

BSL Level 1 is assessed across three units through recorded one to one conversations with your tutor or assessor, testing your ability to understand and communicate in British Sign Language on the topics covered. Assessments are conducted online and externally quality assured by Signature.

Yes, successful learners receive the nationally recognised Level 1 Award in British Sign Language, awarded by Signature and regulated by Ofqual. The course is delivered by Professional Training Solutions in partnership with the Royal Association for Deaf people.