It’s time to explore our campus to find out about studying at Haywards Heath College.
Why choose this course?
This course is designed for adults who have already completed an introductory British Sign Language (BSL) course or have some existing knowledge of BSL and wish to build on their skills. Learners may have previously studied basic signs and finger spelling and are looking to increase their confidence in communicating through sign language.
It is suitable for individuals with an interest in Deaf culture, inclusive communication, and learning a new language. Many learners join the course for personal development, to communicate with Deaf family members, friends, colleagues, or customers, or to enhance their skills for their current role.
No formal qualifications are required, although learners should have some prior experience of BSL equivalent to a beginner or introductory course. The course may also benefit those considering future study in BSL or careers in sectors such as education, healthcare, social care, customer service, community support, and public services where communicating with Deaf people can be valuable.
Further information
This course is designed for adults who have already completed a beginner or introductory British Sign Language (BSL) course and would like to further develop their signing skills and confidence. Learners may have some experience of using BSL in everyday situations and are looking to communicate more fluently and accurately.
It is suitable for individuals with an interest in languages, inclusive communication, and Deaf culture. Many learners join the course to communicate more effectively with Deaf family members, friends, colleagues, customers, or members of their local community. Others may be interested in BSL for personal development, volunteering, or to enhance their skills in the workplace.
While no formal qualifications are required, learners should have prior knowledge of basic BSL, including finger spelling, everyday vocabulary, and simple conversations. The course may be particularly beneficial for those working or hoping to work in sectors such as education, healthcare, social care, customer service, community services, and public services, where communicating with Deaf people can be an advantage.
The course also provides a strong foundation for learners who may wish to progress to more advanced BSL study in the future.
- Develop confidence in communicating using British Sign Language in a wider range of everyday situations.
- Extend vocabulary related to family, work, education, hobbies, travel, health, and social activities.
- Improve receptive skills by understanding longer signed conversations and instructions.
- Develop expressive signing skills using clearer handshapes, facial expressions, and non-manual features.
- Take part in more detailed conversations, asking and answering questions with increasing fluency.
- Use directional verbs, sequencing, and other key BSL grammatical features to communicate more effectively.
- Build confidence in finger spelling, numbers, dates, times, and exchanging personal information.
- Explore aspects of Deaf culture, community, identity, and communication etiquette.
- Practise BSL through interactive activities, role plays, and group conversations based on real-life scenarios.
- Demonstrate the ability to hold sustained conversations and communicate independently in a variety of practical contexts.
After completing this course, learners can progress to more advanced British Sign Language (BSL) courses to further develop their communication skills, fluency, and understanding of Deaf culture. Progression within adult learning programmes may include higher-level recreational BSL courses or accredited BSL qualifications where available.
Learning on the British Sign Language (BSL) Continuation course is highly practical, interactive and supportive. Lessons focus on developing confidence in communicating through sign language, with regular opportunities to practise signing, receptive skills and conversations with other learners. Students will take part in tutor-led demonstrations, paired and group activities, role-play scenarios, and structured signing exercises designed to reflect real-life situations.
The course is delivered through classroom-based sessions, where learners build their vocabulary, improve grammatical accuracy, and develop a greater understanding of Deaf culture and communication. There is a strong emphasis on active participation, helping students gain confidence through regular practice and feedback.
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