BSL Level 4 - Courses
Course details
The Level 4 Certificate in British Sign Language (BSL) meets the learning needs of those who already have competence in British Sign Language at Level 3 and are interested in developing their skills and knowledge. It is designed for those who work with, or want to work with, Deaf people (e.g. social workers, teachers of the Deaf, voluntary workers, workers within Deaf organisations, schools, etc.), and those who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in British Sign Language.
The course has three main units, which are separately assessed; each of which needs to be passed to achieve the full Signature Level Four BSL Qualification.
https://www.signature.org.uk/qualification-specifications/
https://www.signature.org.uk/british-sign-language-level-4-certificate/
Before being accepted into this course, you will need to take part in an online or face to-face interview to ensure that your current BSL skills are at the required level. Please contact me to arrange.
Assessment:
| Assessment | Duration |
|---|---|
| Formal Presentation is a formal presentation by the candidate to their teacher. The presentation will focus on a topic title provided by Signature. | 10-12 mins |
| Informal Conversation Assessment 2 is an informal conversation between the candidate and the teacher. The conversation will focus on a topic title provided by Signature. | 12-14 mins |
| Receptive skills Assessment 3 is a receptive skills task where the candidate will be assessed on their understanding of a story based on one or more of the topics in the Qualification Specification. | 15 mins |
Topics (all compulsory):
- Employment and Business
- Education
- Health and Wellbeing
- Society and Politics
- Science and Technology
- Media and Culture
Who is this course for?
- Professionals who wish to further their communication skills working with deaf people (e.g. social workers, front line staff etc)
- Teachers of the Deaf
- Future students wishing to become interpreters (please note further studying is required)
- Families who wish to fluently communicate with Deaf BSL family members.
- Volunteering within the communication (e.g. working as volunteers within the NDCS, deafblind UK, local deaf organisations etc)
Other expectations of the Level 4 course:
- This is a qualification that is very much student -led (with expert direction and support from the teachers) but there is a requirement where you will need to research and formulate your own opinions and views based on the resources you are given in the class (and own research).
- It is encouraged for students, at this level especially, to be pro-active and seek out opportunities to interact with deaf BSL users (e.g. festivals, events, deaf club, deaf pub etc). This will consolidate their learning as well as give them exposure to a wide range of signers which will support their assessments.
- This course is very different from Level 1 and 2 as it requires students to be regularly presenting their findings/views and opinions to each other. There is a regular homework set that requires students to plan/prepare a signed narrative linked to the theme being studied to develop the skills required at Level 4. This could be in the form of a presentation, debate, asking questions and/or answering questions. Students are expected to maximise these opportunities as this is reflective of the final exams structure and content.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What if I am not self funding and my employer/other will be paying for the course for me?
No problem. Please contact me to discuss this further and make the payment arrangements.
…I miss a class
don’t worry, we appreciate you all have busy lives. We do need regular attendance but when there is an unfortunate occasion where you miss a lesson, there are lots of videos on the learning platform to support you.
Is there a learning agreement documents ?
Yes, I will email you separately and please sign as agreed.
What if I want some extra support?
Some students will arrive to class early (if face-to-face) and spend 30 mins working with each other to support or you can have additional tutorials with me (additional costs).
What if I am not confident with technology?
Don’t worry, I am an IT whizz! I will support you and make sure that you are able to join in. I have supported students from young age to adults with joining my class so you won’t be left behind.
What if I am dyslexic/have a learning need?
If you have a dyslexia assessment (or any other evidence) in place, then I will need to send copies of this to Signature so that they can be made aware when marking your work. You will be given extra time in all exams. You must have some form of evidence (e.g. medical assessment, doctor etc) that can be used.
Am I too old (or too young) to learn?
No! I have taught students in their late 70s. However if you are under 18, an appropriate adult will need to accompany you in your lessons (they do not need to participate but must be in the room with you).
I fail an exam
For ALL Levels, You are able to pay for resits (plus an admin fee). There are no maximum number of retakes.
I live far away.
Teaching and ALL exams can all be done remotely.
What if I have a query /concern. How do I communicate with the teacher/tutor?
If you have any concerns/worries with the course, please contact me immediately via email or Whatsapp (during working hours only). I am then able to correspond with you via written English and alleviate any concerns or issues. If there is a communication barrier, I have an Access To Work interpreter who can provide communication support.
I use a wheelchair. Are your lessons accessible?
All of my teaching locations have wheelchair access, accessible parking and toilets. I am passionate about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn and so I endeavour to make sure the learning environment is accessible and suitable for all.
What happens next when I pass BSL Level 4?
Completion of the Level Three Certificate in British Sign Language (Accredited by Signature) means you can confidently enrol onto the Level Six Certificate in British Sign Language.