BSL Level 1 Award in British Sign Language

A friendly, confidence‑building way to learn BSL Level 1 with hands‑on support.

The BSL Level 1 Award introduces beginners to the essential foundations of British Sign Language for simple, everyday communication. It builds confidence in understanding and producing basic signs so learners can take part in short, practical conversations.

The BSL Level 1 Award is made up of three units:

• Unit 101 – Introduction to BSL

• Unit 102 – Conversational BSL

• Unit 103 – Communicating in BSL about Everyday Life
  

Together, these units give learners the skills to communicate in a range of everyday situations using clear, confident British Sign Language.


Unit 101 – Introduction to British Sign Language
Your first steps into the world of BSL

Learners will develop skills in:

• Greetings and simple conversations

• Fingerspelling (A–Z)

• Numbers (0–100)

• Giving and asking for basic personal information

• Describing people, colours, and simple objects

• Talking about hobbies, weather, and daily routines

• Understanding facial expressions and non‑manual features

A short, friendly conversation with your tutor or another signer, focusing on clarity, basic vocabulary, and simple questions.


Unit 102 – Conversational British Sign Language

Building confidence and expanding everyday communication

Learners will develop skills in:

• Holding longer conversations in BSL

• Asking and answering a wider range of questions

• Talking about daily activities, routines, and personal experiences

• Using placement, direction, and simple BSL structure

• Understanding signed information from others

• Using appropriate facial expressions and role shift
  

Topics include:

• Work and study

• Travel and transport

• Food and drink

• Time, days, and months

• Simple directions and locations

A structured conversation demonstrating understanding, turn‑taking, and clear communication.


Unit 103 – Communicating in BSL about Everyday Life

Applying your skills in real‑life situations

Learners will develop skills in:

• Understanding longer signed stories or explanations

• Giving information clearly using BSL structure

• Describing events, people, and places

• Using space, placement, and non‑manual features effectively

• Following and responding to everyday signed instructions
  
  

Topics include:

• Home and family life

• Leisure activities

• Weather and seasons

• Community and local area

• Personal preferences and opinions

A receptive and productive assessment where learners watch a signed clip and answer questions, followed by producing their own signed information.

Accredited Signature Level 1 Certificate in BSL
(Recognised by Ofqual, the UK’s official qualifications regulator)
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