Basics of BSL

Build confidence using essential British Sign Language vocabulary
Understand key BSL grammar, facial expressions, and handshapes
Communicate basic information in everyday situations
Develop simple conversations using clear and accurate signing
Improve awareness of Deaf culture and communication needs
Strengthen communication skills for inclusive environments

This course is designed for anyone interested in learning the foundations of British Sign Language, whether for personal interest, improved communication, or career development. It is suitable for beginners with no prior signing experience, as the lessons progress gradually and clearly. The course supports individuals working in education, support work, social care, childcare, healthcare, customer service, community engagement, or any role where inclusive communication is valued. It is also ideal for family members, friends, or colleagues of Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who wish to communicate more confidently and respectfully.
Learners looking to enhance their CV with practical communication skills will find this course particularly beneficial. Since BSL is increasingly recognised across the UK as an important language for accessible and inclusive environments, this course provides a strong starting point for anyone wishing to engage more effectively with diverse communities. Regardless of your background or goals, the Basics of BSL course offers a supportive and flexible entry route into learning a meaningful and widely used visual language.

There are no formal entry requirements for enrolling on this course, making it fully accessible to learners from all backgrounds. It is suitable for anyone aged 16 or above who wishes to develop basic British Sign Language skills at their own pace. While no prior experience is needed, learners will benefit from having good English comprehension, basic numeracy, and general IT skills to navigate the online learning platform comfortably. These recommended skills help ensure smooth progress throughout the course and enhance your overall learning experience.

Upon successful completion of the Basics of BSL, you will qualify for a UK and internationally recognised professional certification. You may also choose to formalise your achievement by obtaining your PDF Certificate for £9.99 or a Hardcopy Certificate for £15.

The Basics of BSL course stands out for its flexible structure, allowing learners to study entirely online and at a pace that suits them. The modules are expertly designed to support complete beginners, offering clear explanations, practical examples, and meaningful communication skills from the very first lesson. The course focuses on real-world signing, helping learners use BSL in everyday interactions while building confidence and cultural understanding. As an accessible starting point for those interested in inclusive communication, it offers valuable skills that enhance a CV across education, social care, customer service, and community roles. Learners gain a strong foundation that can be developed further in more advanced BSL training.

Yes. This course is specifically created for beginners with no previous experience in British Sign Language. The modules introduce core vocabulary, grammar, and signing techniques gradually, ensuring learners feel confident as they progress. Clear explanations, practical examples, and supportive guidance make it accessible for all learners, including those studying BSL for personal interest, communication needs, or early career development. The course allows you to learn at your own pace, making it ideal for those new to visual languages.

Gaining skills in British Sign Language is highly valuable across several sectors in the UK. Employers in education, social care, customer service, healthcare, childcare, and community support increasingly recognise the importance of inclusive communication. Even a basic level of BSL can strengthen your CV, demonstrate cultural awareness, and improve your ability to support Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals in a professional environment. This course provides strong foundational skills that can be developed further through more advanced BSL pathways, offering long-term career benefits.

The Basics of BSL course is delivered entirely online, allowing you to study from any location at a pace that suits your schedule. Once enrolled, you receive full access to all learning materials, including video content, explanations, and step-by-step activities. You can revisit lessons as often as needed, making learning flexible and stress-free. This structure is ideal for individuals balancing work, family, or other commitments while still aiming to develop practical communication skills in British Sign Language.