Can I try it out first?

We offer a free introductory videos on YouTube, so you can see us in action before deciding to enroll. Find us here at https: https://tinyurl.com/mvu2n5mt 

Do I have to take exams?

No, exams are entirely optional. Many students take our courses for personal interest, leisure, or to improve communication with Deaf or hard-of-hearing friends, family, or colleagues. If you decide to pursue a Signature-accredited qualification, we offer exams at the end of Level 1 and Level 2 for an additional fee.

Can I use BSL at work after completing this course?

Yes! Many students go on to use their BSL skills in their jobs, especially in roles that involve interacting with the Deaf or hard-of-hearing community. This course will equip you with the foundation needed for workplace communication, and many students find it valuable in customer-facing roles or social care settings.
 

What is the time commitment?
 

Our Level 1 BSL courses run for 12-14 consecutive weeks, and Level 2 runs for 16+ weeks. Classes for both levels are held weekly:

• Level 1: 45 minutes to 1 hour per week.

• Level 2: 1.5 hours per week.
   

In addition to weekly classes, there is a home study task given at the end of each session, which we expect to take 20-30 minutes. The study tasks are designed to reinforce the learning and help you practice in your own time.
 

What if I can't make a session or don't have time for my home study tasks?
 

We understand that life can get busy, and missing a class or study task now and then is no problem. Our study tasks are optional and simply there to enhance your learning experience. They help reinforce what you’ve learned in class and give you a chance to reflect and practice. Missing one now and then won’t affect your progress.
 

Do you offer discounts for people on benefits?
 

No, unfortunately, we cannot offer discounts for people on benefits. As a small family-run business that is not government-subsidized, we are unable to provide this option at the moment.
 

How can I practice BSL outside of class?
 

We encourage students to practice regularly outside of class. You can practice with fellow students, use our video library (Level 1), and explore online BSL dictionaries.
 

What happens if I’m having difficulty with learning the material?
 

If you're struggling with any part of the course, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your tutor. They’ll be happy to offer additional support, provide resources, and answer any questions. We want to make sure you feel confident as you progress through your learning.
 

What is the content for British Sign Language Level 1 and 2 courses?

• Level 1: You’ll learn basic vocabulary such as greetings, numbers, colors, and other beginner-level vocabulary, following the Signature qualification syllabus. Check out any of our local pages for a more detailed breakdown for example Oxford

• Level 2: You’ll build on this with a focus on sign structure, allowing you to hold conversations, present in sign, and read others' signs. Find  a more detailed breakdown here
   

Can I join the Level 2 course if I didn’t study Level 1 with Sign Together?
 

If you’ve studied BSL elsewhere, we invite you to get in touch for an informal chat to assess your level. If you've studied Level 1 with Sign Together, you can discuss your signing experience with your tutor. They will assess whether you're ready for Level 2 based on your skills and comfort level.
 

Do you offer 1-to-1 tutoring?

Yes, we offer private 1-to-1 tutoring. This is an excellent option if you need extra support, want to top up your skills, or are preparing for an exam. If you’ve studied BSL with another provider and feel you need to practice or refresh your knowledge, 1-to-1 tutoring can help. We can also take you through an enrire Level 1 or Level 2 course as a 1-to-1 student. Simply contact us to arrange a session.
 

Can I continue my BSL studies after completing Level 2?
 

Yes! We offer Level 3 BSL once a year in Oxford on Thursday evenings. This course is designed for learners who want to deepen their understanding and mastery of British Sign Language. Contact us for more information on Level 3. We highly recommend continuing onto Level 2 Signature exams if you are moving to another provider to evidence your proficiency, although some providers will allow you to join courses on the basis of a competency video interview.

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How do I access courses?

• In-Person Courses: Once you have paid for your course, you'll be sent a course workbook in PDF format by your trainer. Please print this or load it onto a tablet and bring it with you when you attend one of our courses.
   

• Online Tuition: Your live BSL sign sessions are held on Google Meets. A link and password will be sent to your email before the course. Use the link and password to enter the Google Meets meeting. Ensure your camera is on, your mic is muted, and your chatbox is open.

  
  Note: Level 1 students will receive access to the BSL Video Library by Week 2 of the course via email.
   

Are sessions recorded?
 

• Level 1: Students will have access to a BSL video library, which features a shortened version of each week of the course, including the signs learned that week (without the live, interactive content). Many students have said they found this incredibly helpful for catching up and revising.
   

• Level 2: The Level 2 course does not include a video library, but students will have access to relevant web links for signs in an online British Sign Language dictionary.
   

What is your refund policy?
 

We offer a 14-day refund policy. If you change your mind about the course within 14 days of purchase and before the course starts, you may request a full refund.
Please note: If you purchased your course with less than 15 days before the course start date, this offer does not apply, and no refund will be given.
 

Do you provide BSL resources?
 

Yes! We love to share everything about sign and the world of British Sign Language. Many of our past students have commented on how much they enjoyed our worksheets, video library (Level 1), and links to websites, paper dictionaries, and other online resources to support your learning. We also have a resources page on our website with useful resources and links

 

What if I need to leave the course?
 

Unfortunately, as most of our courses become fully booked, we cannot offer refunds if you are unable to complete the course. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a place on a future course, but this is subject to availability. Please contact us as soon as possible if this applies to you.
 

Is the course suitable for children and young people?
 

Our courses are designed for adults, but we welcome learners from 11+ for the Level 1 course. Many mature young people have joined our courses and thoroughly enjoyed them. We are particularly popular with students working on their Duke of Edinburgh awards, or those who have additional learning needs. We also offer family learning and can work 1-to-1 with families. Please contact us for more information.
 

Can I bring a spouse or child?
 

Yes, we welcome families! While each learner must pay separately, parents can sit with their children as supervision, provided they aren’t participating in the class themselves. For online sessions, we offer family discounts for 1-to-1 private sessions.
 

We recommend that children attend from age 11+ for our adult courses. Contact us for more information on family learning options.

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Will my trainer be Deaf?
 

Richard Walklett, our master tutor, is hard of hearing and teaches most our Level 2 courses, Level 3 and Corporate clients.

Our teaching team includes a mix of Deaf, hearing and hard-of-hearing tutors, all of whom are qualified with Signature qualifications. Some of our Level 1 tutors are hearing. For more information on our team, check out the About Us page or enquire before booking.
 

Are the venues accessible?

Most of our venues are accessible except Meadowbrook College which is not wheelchair accessible due to it being a very old Vicrotian building with a small set of stairs to the door.
If you have mobility concerns and would like to attend a Banbury course, please contact us in advance so we can assist you.
 

Is there parking at the venues?

• Meadowbrook College Banbury: Parking is available but limited to a few spaces.

• Old Fire Station Oxford: This venue does not have a dedicated car park but is close to most Oxford City Centre car parks.

• Our other venues offer plenty of parking
   

EXAMS AND CERTIFICATION

Are your courses accredited?

Yes, we are an approved Signature Qualifications Centre. However, please note that if you wish to take exams, these are charged as a separate fee at the end of your course. Your tutor will discuss with you the process for continuing onto your Signature-accredited qualification.
 

What do exams entail?

• Level 1 Exams:

  • Conversation (2 exams): A 5-minute conversation about your everyday life, and another 5-minute conversation on a topic you’ve studied in the course, chosen by the exam board.

  • Skills Checklist: Filled out by your tutor to assess your skills.
     

• Level 2 Exams:

  • Receptive Exam: Watching a recorded video of a member of the Deaf community signing, followed by questions about what was said.

  • Presentation Exam: A 3-5 minute presentation on a topic of your choice using the vocabulary you've learned.

  • Conversation Exam: A recorded conversation with your tutor on a chosen topic.
     

Sign Together’s approach is different from other providers—all exams are individual. You’ll receive feedback in a 1-to-1 setting, ensuring personalized support. Your tutor will let you know when you're ready to sit for your exams.
 

How do I know if I’m ready to take the exam?
 

Approach your tutor for guidance or book a 1-to-1 with us and we will host a free tutorial to assess your readiness with one of our exam assessors.
 

Can I reschedule my exam if I miss it?

Exams are arranged on a 1-to-1 basis, and your tutor will discuss available dates with you. Once your exam date is booked with Signature, it cannot be canceled without incurring the exam fee. You would need to pay the cost of the single exam again. Exams can be taken anytime after the course ends, as long as your skill level hasn’t changed.
 

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