Who is this course for?
This course is open to everyone, regardless of previous sign language knowledge or experience. Whether you have a personal interest in BSL, work in an inclusive environment, or simply want to broaden your communication skills, this course is a stepping stone towards effective communication with the deaf community. This course will also assist with deaf awareness.

How do I enrol?
If you are paying the full fee, the quickest way to enrol is online at www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk, simply create an account and select enrol now. Otherwise you will need to speak to one of our customer service team. If you have any questions, please call our friendly customer service team on 01752 660713.

Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements, this course is for complete beginners. People with a limited amount of knowledge on the subject may join this course to refresh their knowledge.

Course aims
Welcome to the Introduction to Bristish Sign Lanugage and Deaf Awareness course! This course will provide you with a solid foundation in British Sign Language (BSL), a visual-gestural language used by the Deaf community in the UK. The course will also look at Deaf Awareness and how you can apply it when communicating with Deaf people. This course is designed to give you a glimpse into the rich world of BSL, enabling you to communicate and connect with the Deaf community in a meaningful way whilst remembering Deaf Awareness top tips. Over the course, you will explore the basics of BSL, including vocabulary, grammar and fundimental signing skills. Each week, you will participate in engaging lessons and interactive activities that will help you develop both receptive and expressive BSL skills. You will also learn about how to communicate to a Deaf person, understand the culture and language appropriation and technology this is used by Deaf people. Our tutor, Jason Trotter, will guide you throught the learning process, providing clear explanations, demonstrations and ample opportunities for practice. By the end of the course, you will have acquired essential BSL knowledge and skills, allowing you to engage in simple conversations with Deaf people.

How will the course be delivered?
This is a practical course and the sessions will include tutor-led demonstrations, learner-led group activities, instruction and repetition. These will form part of the delivery together with one-to-one support as required.

Will I need to study or practise outside the classroom?
It is always useful to practise your skills between sessions.

How will I know I'm making progress?
During the first session, your tutor will discuss your goals and current level in relation to the course. Based on this assessment, you will agree individual targets which you will record in your individual learning plan (ILP). You and your tutor will review your targets regularly to ensure that you are making progress; these will be written in your individual learning plan.

What will I need for the course?
Please bring a pen, notepad and a file for your hand-outs.

Progression
Look out for information regarding follow-on courses. There are other similar courses that you may be interested in. Please note that the fees for these vary and the eligibility for concessionary fees may be different. Learning Advisors will be happy to provide you with information of what progression is available. Visit our website at www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk or contact us on 01752 660713 to make an appointment.

Career opportunities
This is an excellent course to add to a CV. It can be used in all settings and with further training you could become a signer or support worker.

Please note:
Most courses attract a subsidy from the Education and Skills Funding Agency and can be used to match funding for ESF. It is a requirement of the ESFA that you complete various forms at different stages of your course, further information is available on request. Courses are subject to a minimum number of enrolments and could be cancelled if recruitment is low. In some cases, an alternative class at a different location may be offered. Room numbers are subject to change - please check when you arrive at the venue.