Integrating British Sign Language in Schools
A Path to Inclusive Education
Posted by Joshua Archibald on Sep 19, 2024
Sign language is the key to accessibility and inclusion in communication. For many people that have hearing impairments or a variety of other disabilities, sign language can frequently be the easiest or the only possible method for clear communication.
This is one of the most compelling reasons as to why British Sign Language is being introduced as a GCSE subject, to give the opportunity for those that have learnt sign language to be academically recognised as well as provide an opportunity for those that are eager to learn.
One step closer to the classroom
This means that UK schools may need to make some changes to ensure that they are prepared to offer the opportunity to learn British Sign Language. The Government aims to introduce this for the first teaching from September 2025. This means that schools have a year to prepare themselves with the correct facilities.
The UK Governments proposal
British Sign Language was officially recognised as a language in the UK last year, after the British Sign Language Act was passed. Shortly after this was passed, a 12-week consultation with input from parents, teachers and organisations from the deaf and hearing communities finalised the curriculum.
It says the qualification will be open to all pupils, who will learn about 1,000 signs, as well as an important life skill and advance inclusivity. This provides an opportunity for UK children to be taught about the values of fairness and inclusivity across more than just communication, educating them to become kind and mindful members of our society.
To find out more visit - https://www.gov.uk/government/news/british-sign-language-gcse-moves-one-step-closer-to-the-classroom
Procurement Services framework
On our Language Services framework we work collaboratively with our awarded suppliers to provide both face to face and video interpretation for non-spoken language. This means that if schools need the support to ensure that British Sign Language is correctly taught and evaluated then we can help!
To find out more information about our Language Services framework and how it can support your school, visit here.
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