British Sign Language is a communication method using gestures, facial expressions and body language, for the estimated 150,000 Deaf Adults and children in the UK for about 70,000 of them BSL is their preferred language.BSL has its own grammatical structure and sytax, it is a language in its own right and is not dependant upon or related to English.
BSL was only recognised as an official language in March 2003 but records show the existence of Sign Language as far back as the 15th Century.
In April 2022 the BSL Act came into force offering greater inclusion and equality for BSL users, it is now a legally recognised language for England, Wales and Scotland. Government departments are required to report on how they are promoting and facilitating the use of BSL and provide guidance on how to meet the needs of people who use BSL as their first or preferred language.
Any form of disability can lead to social exclusion and isolation, and one way to address this is to promote and encourage the use of effective communication methods to bridge the gap between the Deaf and Hearing worlds.
Personal Development is a lifelong process. It is a way to access skills and qualities, consider aims in life and set goals in order to realise and maximise potential. As the modern era changes to become a more inclusive and disability aware world, it is vital that we adapt to the ever-changing landscape of disability-related terminology and best practice.
Our courses are fully accredited by Signature (the awarding body for Deaf Communication) which means that upon completing your course you will have gained a formally recognised qualification.
