Sign Language Level 1 - Online Live

About the Tutor: Keith French

Keith French qualified as a Social Worker/Care Manager with KCC Sensory Services in 2005 and completed his Post Qualifying (BSc Honours) in Social Work in 2013. He is now a Deaf Community Worker with KCC Sensory Services to improve accessibility, inclusivity and equality for Deaf BSL people in using public services that meets their cultural and communication needs.

He has contributed to a new Social Work with Adults book focusing on people with sensory disabilities and this is an area of expertise for Keith amongst many other contributions to support those with hearing and/or sight difficulties that impact day-to-day life.

Keith enjoys teaching within his role as a BSL Tutor and encouraging others to learn BSL to open up the world of inclusion for the Deaf Community.

View all courses taught by Keith French here

The emphasis is on signed communication and Sign Language is used most of the time. A variety of teaching strategies will be used, eg. demonstration and explanation by the tutor who signs, repeated by the students, small group work and pair work, whole class exercises, videos and games and handouts to take home.

Individual assessment is carried out at the beginning of the course to assess individual skill level. Each student's starting point is recorded on an Individual Learning Plan ( ILP) and targets are set to aid development of the skill. These are revisited from time to time during the course to monitor and record progress.

A folder for your notes, notebook/paper and pen/pencil. The assessment/exam fees are included in the course fee. There are no set text books for this course but students may wish to buy books or sign up to revision websites for home study. The tutor will advise. We advise students not to buy anything until after the first session.

Students who achieve the Signature Level 1 Award in British Sign Language can progress to the Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language. Your tutor will be able to advise you if you are ready for this progression or see www.kentadulteducation.co.uk.
During your course your tutor will offer guidance in relation to your personal progression route. Courses are designed to progress you to further study or into employment. In addition some of our courses support access to Further and Higher Education opportunities. KAE web site has information about these courses and developing your own business. Please speak with your tutor if you have an interest in self-employment or an interest in developing a career. We can also help you access the National Careers service.

This course is for anyone who wants to learn how to communicate with Deaf people or who simply has an interest in Sign Language. It is suitable for those who are new to British Sign Language or who may have already attended a Sign Language Taster or a Basics course. However, you will need to have the ability to move and manipulate your fingers and hands to make the appropriate handshapes, ask if you are unsure. You should also seek advice before enrolling if you have severe dyslexia or other learning difficulties.

There is a concession for students who have a hearing impairment or who have close relatives who have a hearing impairment. Ask upon enrolment for details. You will need to show proof of a hearing impairment if you are applying for the hearing concession.