Opening doors to communication as York St John brings British Sign Language learning to A-Level students

A new short course offered by York St John University has helped young people build valuable communication skills and explore new learning opportunities. The 6-week British Sign Language (BSL) enrichment course was first rolled out to A-level students in York and the surrounding area in Spring 2025 and will continue into 2026 after it was hailed a huge success.  

Free to attend, the sessions have attracted strong interest, with 30 young people taking part in each course delivered in April, October, and November. Students learn the basics of finger spelling, lip reading, and how manual signs and facial expressions are used to create meaning. At the end of the course students receive a completion certificate. 

The courses were delivered by Amanda Smith and Dai O’Brien, Associate Professors of British Sign Language and Deaf Studies at York St John University. Amanda said: 

“There are over 150,000 BSL users in the UK, and many still face communication barriers. These courses have given young people a strong foundation in the language and help them better understand and support deaf BSL users. They have also raised awareness, encouraged inclusion, and helped open up future routes into higher education.” 

Describing the value of the course, a current student said: 

"I decided to take the BSL enrichment classes because I have always had an interest in BSL. I thought it was unfair that deaf people have to adapt to us, when we could just learn BSL! It's also just another great skill to add, making you a diverse person. I have thoroughly enjoyed these lessons because Amanda, the teacher, is so enthusiastic and patient. We have learnt many useful signs, such as signs to introduce yourself and express how you are feeling. I have not only gained knowledge of BSL but also knowledge about the deaf community and how to help the world be a more accessible place for them. I would recommend these classes to anyone!" 

York St John University will be running further courses for A-level students in 2026. Please visit the York St John University website to find out more and register your interest.   

Learn about our undergraduate degree in British Sign Language, Deaf Studies and Linguistics BA (Hons).