Level 1 Award in British Sign Language

U​pdated 2026-05-08

Learn British Sign Language with Confidence

At Manchester Deaf Centre, we offer welcoming, high‑quality BSL courses taught by experienced Deaf tutors. Whether you’re beginning BSL for the first time or building on Level 1, you’ll learn in a supportive, Deaf‑led setting that helps you develop your skills at a comfortable pace.

Why Learn BSL?

  • Communicate confidently with Deaf people
  • Improve accessibility and inclusion
  • Develop valuable personal and professional skills
  • Be part of a growing, inclusive community

Level 1 Award in British Sign Language

Start signing with confidence

Level 1 is a 30‑week, term‑time only course for complete beginners, designed to help you start communicating in BSL with confidence. No experience needed — just curiosity and a willingness to learn..

By the end of Level 1, you’ll be able to:

  • Introduce yourself and others
  • Take part in simple everyday conversations
  • Ask and answer basic questions

What you’ll learn

  • Meeting people and sharing information
  • Food, drink and daily activities
  • Directions and transport
  • Describing people, objects and interests
  • Numbers, weather and routines Plus an introduction to Deaf culture and respectful communication.

Course Information

Cost: £410 (tuition only) Payment: 2‑instalment plan available (non‑refundable deposit)

Important: Course fees do not include exam fees. Exam fees and an administration fee are payable separately for each exam booking, including resits.

Enrol on Level 1

Tutor: Sarah Shaukat -https://www.manchesterdeafcentre.com/about/staff/sarah-shaukat/

  • Thursday 24 September 2026 – 6pm to 8pm (enrol here!)

Tutor: Wayne Sharples -https://www.manchesterdeafcentre.com/about/staff/wayne-sharples/

Who Are Our Courses For?

  • Beginners
  • Parents of Deaf children
  • Professionals (healthcare, education, customer service)
  • Anyone interested in learning BSL

How You’ll Learn

  • Small, supportive groups
  • Delivered by experienced Deaf tutors
  • Interactive, practical sessions
  • Real‑life communication focus
  • Access to high‑quality online resources
  • Assessments completed at your pace with full tutor support

Why Choose Manchester Deaf Centre?

  • One of the North West’s leading BSL training providers
  • Over 10 years of specialist teaching experience
  • High pass rates and excellent learner feedback
  • A welcoming, Deaf‑centred learning environment
  • Learn within a real Deaf community
  • Celebrating 180 years of supporting Deaf people

Funding Support

You may be able to apply for support through:

  • The Birkdale Trust
  • Turn2Us
  • Local councils
  • Employers or disability funding schemes

Ready to Get Started?

Enrol today — limited spaces available. Or contact us to find the right course for you.

Email: courses@manchesterdeafcentre.com


Thank you to our partners


Our Opening Times

If you would like to know more about
any of our services, please get in touch.

ADDRESS
Manchester Deaf Centre,
Crawford House,
Booth Street East,
M13 9GH

MONDAY - FRIDAY
09:00 – 17:00

CONTACT US

0161 273 3415
info@manchesterdeafcentre.com

Registered Charity Number: 1110373