Learn British Sign Language
We provide free sign language courses and classes for families with children who have any type or level of deafness. Explore our upcoming opportunities to learn British Sign Language (BSL) online below.
Free sign language courses and classes
First Signs, First Stories
Join our new fun and interactive online sessions for your chance to learn basic signs through the magic of storytelling!
Who's it for
- Designed for children aged 0 to 2 years, but open to all families with pre-school children who have any type or level of deafness.
When and where
- Every Friday for 6 weeks, starting 17 January 2025
- 10am to 10.40am
- Online via Zoom
Stories week-by-week
- 17 January, Where’s Spot
- 24 January, Dear Zoo
- 31 January, Goldilocks & the Three Bears
- 7 February, Fox’s Socks
- 14 February, Postman Bear
- 21 February, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
What to expect
First Signs, First Stories offers a gentle and enjoyable introduction to BSL. Each session will be led by an experienced deaf tutor, supported by BSL interpreters. You’ll learn essential communication strategies and key signs to accompany each story. Our tutor will sign the story, bringing it to life in a way that supports bonding between parents, carers, and their children.
Benefits of joining
- Learn as a family. Grandparents, siblings and other family members are welcome to come along. Up to six people can join per family, using a maximum of three devices.
- Connect with a community of families with deaf children in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Book onto all six sessions or the ones that fit your schedule. Don’t miss your chance to explore the world of sign language with your little one!
Family Sign Language 1: Introductory course
Sorry, there’s currently no course dates available. New dates will be available in April 2025.
Family Sign Language: Christmas Special
Who's it for
- Families with deaf children ages 0 to 5 years.
- Bring the whole family along; up to three devices can join in the fun.
When and where
- 11 December
- 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- Online via Zoom
What to expect
Get into the festive spirit with our Family Sign Language team! Our friendly, experienced deaf tutors are here to teach you Christmas-themed signs. So, grab your Christmas hats, jumpers and reindeer antlers and get ready for some jolly signing.
What other families thought…
“The course has been amazing and has taught us the basic signs needed to help my daughter with her communication. I would definitely recommend the course to others. We learnt so many signs that are now incorporated into our daily routines. Thank you so much!”
Vicky, parent of a deaf child
Joining our online events
We'll have experts on hand to support you in joining the event online. You can also watch or download our guide to joining online events.
Zoom auto-generated captions and BSL interpreters will be available.
Contact us
If you have any questions or require any other communication or language support, please email [email protected].