Level 4 Certificate in British Sign Language (Sep 23)

Course aim

The Level 4 Certificate in British Sign Language (BSL) meets the learning needs of those who already have competence in British Sign Language at Level 3 and are interested in developing their skills and knowledge. It is designed for those who work with, or want to work with, Deaf people (e.g. social workers, teachers of the Deaf, voluntary workers, workers within Deaf organisations, schools, etc.), and those who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in British Sign Language.

The assessment criteria is taken from the UK Occupational Language Standards at Level 4 (‘extended’ language use). This qualification is at Level 4 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), ‘Extended Level’ on the Language Ladder, and Level B2/C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Course Structure

Candidates must demonstrate both receptive and productive BSL skills at level 4, and in all of the six topics that make up this qualification. Assessments may cover any of the topics listed in this qualification.

The natural context of using BSL is in two-way interactions (discussions, conversations, debates etc.), as well as one-way interactions (monologues, presentations etc.). The candidate is therefore expected to demonstrate receptive and productive skills in both two-way and one- way interactions. Signature recommends the best approach to teaching and assessing this qualification is by covering both receptive and productive skills together.

Course Objectives

Successful completion of this qualification can be used as evidence of the language skills needed in order to be able to operate independently and at an advanced level in the target language. It is useful for those who work on a regular basis with Deaf people (for example social workers, teachers of the Deaf, communicators, voluntary workers, workers within Deaf organisations, schools, etc), those who aspire to work in these contexts, and those who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in British Sign Language.