Job Title: British Sign Language Teacher
Average Salary: Variable
Typical Hours: 16 to 30 hours per week, term time
Possible Work Schedule: Evenings occasionally
How to Become a British Sign Language Teacher:
University Route:
- Pursue a foundation degree or a degree in British Sign Language (BSL) and deaf studies.
- Consider obtaining a teaching qualification such as a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) for teaching in schools.
College Route:
- Complete a Level 1 and 2 Certificate in BSL before progressing to higher-level qualifications.
- Aim for at least a Level 3 or 4 Certificate in BSL, with some employers requiring a Level 6 Certificate.
- Additionally, gain a qualification in another subject area alongside BSL and obtain a teaching qualification.
Work Route:
- Begin as a sign language teaching assistant or communication support worker.
- Acquire a BSL qualification at Level 3 or higher through on-the-job training.
- Further your education with a teaching or training qualification to become a BSL teacher.
Other Routes:
- Obtain BSL qualifications through a professional body like Signature, ranging from introductory to Level 6 Certificates.
- Aim for a Level 6 Certificate in BSL for BSL teaching roles.
What it Takes:
Skills and Knowledge:
- Teaching knowledge and course design abilities.
- Collaboration skills.
- Proficiency in English.
- Empathy and sensitivity.
- Adaptability and patience.
- Computer literacy.
Restrictions and Requirements:
- Pass enhanced background checks.
Day-to-Day Tasks:
- Plan and prepare lessons.
- Teach sign language to students.
- Deliver curriculum subjects using sign language.
- Monitor and record students’ progress.
- Collaborate with staff to develop courses and materials.
- Communicate with parents or carers regarding students’ progress.
Working Environment:
- Schools, special needs schools, language schools, colleges, or community settings.
Career Path and Progression:
- Advance to a teaching coordinator role in a school or college.
- Take on responsibilities for linking with employers to offer work experience opportunities.
- Pursue further training in related areas such as lipspeaking, deafblind communication, or deaf awareness.
- Freelance work or establish a BSL teacher agency.