The RNID explains that 12 million adults in the UK are deaf, have tinnitus, or have other hearing problems, and of these, there are 1 million people in Scotland. So, it makes sense that there are a lot of people in Scotland’s biggest city, Glasgow, who are using BSL daily. On top of that, there are many people who want to take sign language classes in Glasgow to better support a loved one with hearing loss, or for personal development.
As well as lessons, there are a lot of different locations where people can access support if they are suffering from hearing loss, and we’ve concentrated on some of these in the post, too. Glasgow has a deaf community that involves meetups, events, and more, making it an accessible city
Sign Language Classes in Glasgow
Let’s delve into the places where people can learn about BSL and other forms of sign language and deaf skills in the city of Glasgow. Like sign language learning in London, there are educational establishments, charities, and even individuals offering sign language tuition in Glasgow.
Glasgow Clyde College
Glasgow Clyde College is very switched on and has multiple options when it comes to BSL, including options for adult learning.
Glasgow Clyde College offers BSL courses for any individuals interested in learning sign language. These courses may cover various levels of proficiency, from introductory to advanced.
The college offers both part-time and full-time courses, as well as evening classes to accommodate different schedules.
If you take one of the classes, you will work towards a range of SQA qualifications, which can result in getting an SQA British Sign Language Award as proof of your achievement.
Glasgow Clyde College has evening courses with a focus on learning BSL as a language and usually runs one evening per week. On top of this they have another scheme for people who want to learn casually and aren’t working on a specific qualification.
“Our ‘Love to Learn’ evening and weekend leisure courses offer you the opportunity to learn BSL without the pressure of working towards a qualification.”
The college does some excellent work when it comes to the very basic levels of sign language, but they are not necessarily the best choice for those who want to reach an advanced level, as they do not offer higher-level courses.
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow offers British Sign Language (BSL) courses through its short courses. Many universities also offer support for the blind, something we also see in Manchester with their University. These courses are designed to provide individuals with opportunities to learn sign language and engage with the deaf community. Here's an overview of the BSL courses offered by the University of Glasgow and whether they are suitable for part-time learning.
Their courses are split into four units and start at different times throughout the year. They offer courses in 10 weeks, with 2 hours per week of learning time.
| Unit | Unit Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | This introductory course is suitable for beginners with no prior knowledge of BSL. It covers basic vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills, allowing learners to communicate effectively in simple everyday situations and use skills like fingerspelling. |
| 2 | Building on the knowledge gained in Unit 1, this intermediate-level course expands learners' vocabulary and language skills. It covers more complex topics and conversational scenarios, helping learners to communicate more fluently and confidently in BSL. |
| 3 | This allows users to develop their skills to use familiar expressions and simple phrases, as well as work on receptive skills and develop non-manual components such as fingerspelling, signing space, placement and facial expressions. |
| 4 | This is the most advanced level and focuses on practical uses for the skills already learned in previous units. You must have done units 1-3 to participate. |
BSL courses offered by the University of Glasgow are typically structured to accommodate learners with various schedules and commitments. The Centre for Open Studies may offer part-time evening classes or weekend workshops, allowing individuals to balance their BSL studies with work, family, or other responsibilities. Additionally, the university may provide online learning options for individuals who prefer the flexibility of remote study, so you can learn sign language anywhere in the UK.
City of Glasgow College
A qualification offered at City of Glasgow College is British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1. This course is designed to provide learners with a foundational understanding of BSL, enabling them to communicate effectively with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in basic everyday situations.
This beginner's level course will enable you to communicate about familiar, day-to-day topics and engage in basic activities. The three-unit structure will allow you to study the qualification in bite-sized chunks.
BSL Level 1 is an introductory course, suitable for individuals with little to no prior knowledge of BSL. It serves as a starting point for learners who are interested in learning sign language and developing basic communication skills in BSL.
The Level 1 course doesn’t require any specific entry requirements unless English is your second language, in which case you need to provide evidence that you have achieved ESOL Intermediate Level 2 (or equivalent) to take part in the sign language lessons in Glasgow.
Once achieving Level 1, students can move on to Level 2, which provides them with skills to reach more of a fluent level of conversation in sign language, good for supporting a deaf person in your life.
Deaf Action
Deaf Action is a charitable organisation that provides support, services, and advocacy for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals across Scotland. While Deaf Action primarily operates in Edinburgh and the Lothians, they also offer services and support in other areas, including Glasgow.
Deaf Action provides information and advice on a variety of topics relevant to the deaf community, including access to services, communication support, and rights and entitlements.
They also offer British Sign Language (BSL) classes for individuals interested in learning sign language. These classes may cover different levels of proficiency, from beginner to advanced, and provide opportunities for practical skill development and cultural awareness.
Courses include:
- BSL taster course
- Introduction to BSL
- BSL Level 1
- BSL Level 2
- BSL Level 3
Deaf Action facilitates community engagement and social activities for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, providing opportunities for networking, peer support, and cultural exchange. They even offer BSL video production for companies to create video content for deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
Though Glasgow is not their main base, Deaf Action is an exceptional charity that provides support in so many different ways. It is well worth exploring what they have to offer. While Deaf Action's services and programs may vary depending on location and funding availability, they are committed to supporting the needs of the deaf community in Glasgow and beyond.
Further Support For Deaf and Hearing Impaired in Glasgow
As well as BSL courses (which can be undertaken by people who have no hearing impairment, of course), there are other supporting organisations around Glasgow.
Glasgow City Council Sensory Impairment Teams
Glasgow City Council has dedicated Sensory Impairment Teams that provide support and assistance for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. These teams offer a range of services, including assessment and advice on communication support, equipment provision, advocacy, and social work support.
Glasgow University Sign Language Society
Glasgow University Sign Language Society is another fantastic organisation that allows people to work towards a BSL Level 1 qualification. They have informal classes and people who are not deaf are absolutely welcome. They call it a “relaxed environment” and have loads of different events throughout the year including Christmas carolling, and deaf theatre.
The Glasgow University Sign Language Society has an active Facebook page which is great for keeping track of what is happening, plus they are open to anyone who is interested in learning or practising British Sign Language.
Learn Sign Language in Glasgow With Superprof
Reach a new level of communication and inclusivity by learning British Sign Language (BSL) in Glasgow with Superprof. Our experienced and qualified tutors offer personalised sign language lessons tailored to your individual learning needs and goals. Many can also help you to work towards formal qualifications in BSL. You can find tutors across the UK including BSL lessons in Birmingham.
Our BSL tutors in Glasgow provide flexible learning options, including in-person lessons at a location convenient for you or online sessions from the comfort of your own home. With Superprof, you can learn at your own pace and schedule, making it easy to fit sign language learning into your lifestyle.
Whether you're interested in learning BSL for personal enrichment, professional development, or to connect with the deaf community, our tutors are here to support you every step of the way. Many of them also have great knowledge of the local community and things like events that are happening, you may find tutors in Leeds or elsewhere in the UK if you aren't based in Glasgow.
Take the first step towards mastering sign language today. Browse our selection of BSL and sign language tutors in Glasgow today and book your first lesson!
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I’m interested in learning Sign Language
Hi Adam,
That’s fantastic! Sign Language is a valuable skill, and we’re thrilled to hear about your interest. Superprof has a wide range of tutors who specialize in Sign Language, so you can find one who suits your learning style and needs.
Feel free to browse our platform to see available tutors or search for local classes in your area. Many tutors offer introductory lessons so you can get started on your journey with confidence.
Good luck, and let us know if you have any questions!