British Sign Language (BSL)
At SJSC, we believe that languages connect us and effective communication brings opportunity and happiness.
SJSC is Southwark’s Deaf Resource Base and we aim for children to leave SJSC with curiosity and a deep understanding of how people from different communities communicate.
Through learning BSL, hearing and deaf learners of all ages develop their ability and ambition to communicate using sign within the deaf and hearing communities. Learning BSL can deepen learners’ understanding of human communication more generally and strengthen their knowledge of how languages work, providing a firm foundation for further language learning.
BSL in action
BSL is taught from year 3 upwards and follows the Languages for Key Stage 2 – Programme of Study.
The curriculum is taught by a qualified BSL instructor who is a native BSL speaker. Our aim is for all children to have an understanding of deaf identity and culture and to have confidence in communicating using BSL.
Children are taught the multi-modality of human communication and of the role played by gesture. The study of any language system allows learners to develop their understanding of how communication is central to the human condition, and working out how BSL is put together can support metacognition. The knowledge and skills acquired in BSL are of value and relevance for immediate and longer-term use in learning, life, and work.