Learning Sign Language

What is BSL?

Find out how to start learning BSL, how long it takes, and the best ways to practise and build confidence.

How can I learn BSL? You can learn BSL through local classes, online courses, books, videos, and by practising with others. Taking a course with a qualified tutor is a great way to build confidence and get feedback on your signing. If you're looking for a course, it’s best to choose one that offers an accredited qualification and taught by an experienced tutor to ensure you're learning accurate and appropriate BSL. I offer both local and live online classes. Find out more by clicking the LEARN tab on the menu.

Who can teach sign language? In the UK, British Sign Language should be taught by qualified BSL tutors—When looking for a teacher make sure they hold a recognised teaching qualification and a minimum of a Signature Level 3 Award in BSL (or higher). Many tutors are Deaf and bring valuable lived experience to their teaching. Make sure your teacher has experience mixing or working in the Deaf culture.

How does BSL differ from other sign languages? BSL is unique to the UK. Just like spoken languages vary between countries, so do sign languages. BSL is different from American Sign Language (ASL), Irish Sign Language (ISL), and others—they are not interchangeable.

Is BSL difficult to learn? Like any new language, BSL takes time and practice—but many people find it fun and rewarding. Because it’s visual and expressive, it often feels very different from learning a spoken or written language.

Can hearing people learn BSL? Yes! BSL is for everyone, not just Deaf people. Hearing people learn BSL for many reasons—whether to communicate with friends, family, customers, or simply to enjoy learning a new language.

How long does it take to learn BSL? This depends on how much time you dedicate to it. You can learn some basic signs quite quickly, but building fluency takes longer—usually through progressing from beginner to advanced levels over time. You can learn for fun, to gain conversational skills or to gain a Level 1, 2, 3, 4 or 6 qualification.

What’s the best way to practice BSL? The best way is to practise regularly—watch BSL videos, attend classes, join BSL social groups, and sign with others whenever you can. Repetition and real conversation help it stick.

Can I communicate in BSL if I just learn fingerspelling? Fingerspelling is helpful, especially for names and places, but BSL is much more than just spelling words. To have real conversations, you'll need to learn signs, grammar, and how to use facial expressions and body language.

What sign language qualifications can I study for? In the UK, most British Sign Language (BSL) qualifications are offered through Signature. These qualifications start at Level 1 (beginner) and progress through to Level 6, which is equivalent to degree level. You can also study specialist qualifications if you'd like to become a BSL/English interpreter, Deafblind communicator, or BSL teacher. Each level builds on vocabulary, grammar, and confidence in using BSL in everyday and professional settings.

Signposts to further information:

Signature: The UK's leading awarding body for BSL qualifications. Search for approved BSL courses near you.
BSLwithTricia: Find a local or online course to suit your needs.
BSL Zone is great for practising your receptive skills.
BSLwithTricia: Check out What's On page to find groups and Facebook groups to support your learning.

Image explaining the qualifications Level 1 is equal to and Entry level, level 2 is equalt to GCSE grades 4-9, level 3 is equal to A-Level, Level 4 is equal to first year degree, level 6 is equal to a full degree.