Sign Language (BSL)

Introduction to Sign (BSL)

All our sign-based courses using British Sign Language (BSL) unless stated Sign Supported English (SSE) *

A recent study of young people, both Deaf and hearing, across the UK, found over 90% want to learn British Sign Language. Introduction to sign courses are perfectly placed to help children and adults learn the lifetime skill of signing, together in a fun and informal way that provides enhanced interactions for all concerned.

  • There are 11 million people with hearing loss across the UK, that’s around one in six of us.
  • By 2035, we estimate there’ll be around 15.6 million people with hearing loss across the UK – that’s one in five.
  • There are 50,000 children with hearing loss in the UK. Around half are born with hearing loss while the other half lose their hearing during childhood.
  • An estimated 900,000 people in the UK have severe or profound hearing loss.

BSL is the 4th most commonly used native language in the UK and is now recognised as a Modern Foreign Language (MFL). SSE is using BSL signs but in the word order of spoken English – it is used often in schools to support English language learning.

With the government consulting on bringing Sign Language into the curriculum soon what a way to help your child get ahead of the curve.

The Introduction to Sign course is set up at 3 courses each 3 weeks long and 1.5 hours in each session, below is a brief outline of each course.

  • Introduction to sign -D/deaf culture, Finger Spelling, Numbers& Dates, Family and Key vocabulary to give a simple grounding in using sign language. (Free pocket dictionary)
  • Introduction to Sign Continued – Travel, Feelings & Health, Food as well as a further understanding of non-manual features of sign and increased confidence and vocabulary.
  • Introduction to sign Conversation – Building on previous sections of learning and works on increasing fluidity of signing, use of non-manual features and increased vocabulary and receptive skills.

*Sign Supported English (SSE) is mostly used to teach in the Early Years

Please note that invis-Ability will not teach higher levels of BSL because we believe that BSL should be taught by D/deaf BSL users.  Our facilitators are not Deaf but hard of hearing or partners of Deaf people.

Course Start Dates for 2022:

Introduction to sign part 1: 6th September

Introduction to sign part 2: 4th October

Introduction to sign part 3: 1st November

All sessions will be held at Great Ashby Community Centre

7.00pm – 8.30pm

If you wish to be booked onto a place please send us a message and we will send you all the relevant information.