BSL in mainstream schools

[Fuffa03]

I found this course and decided to try it out during lockdown. I mentioned it to the head teacher who is very interested in it anyway and now all the TA’s are doing it.
I work in primary and there could quite easily be time in the school week (or fortnightly) to do it. As more special needs chn are attending mainstream school I think all schools should teach this skill instead of makaton. A great way to teach chn a life skill and be all inclusive too. 

[Ellen Jay]

Yes I love this idea, I am beginning my PGCE in September and would love to see more of British Sign Language in Mainstream schools

[SarahL]

Hi guys, Music Teacher / Head of Department of almost 10 years here  I actually introduced a project in my previous school where I sent out a weekly email to all staff with at least one sign on it that they could use with the students (please/thank you, sit down, quiet, can I help you etc.) At that point, I had only done my own research into basic signs.

It was used by most staff successfully and I would randomly find students passing me in the hallways, asking me if I needed their help carrying my books / instruments etc. It was lovely!

My current role is in a special school which actually has a deaf provision area for sixth formers, so it will be great to use my new Level 1 (starting L2 in Sept) skills with them!

Best of luck to you both.

[Mrs McKee]

I am a beginner to BSL myself, but have a role i teaching Spanish, etc in our primary school.  I currently teach STEM and often use a songs, particularly with the younger children.  Our Covid guidance at present means we are not allowed to sing and I thought that might give an opportunity to use Sign Supported English to learn some signs for songs we already know instead,  Hope that makes sense.  That said, I'm not really sure where to begin, so wish me luck.

[Anna Shirley]

Hi there! I am a NQT and during this strange time teaching, I have added in BSL and SSE to my curriculum. The kids love it. We learnt Merry Christmas everyone and let it go from frozen in SSE. In BSL they learn along with me. I think it should definitely be taught. It's so lovely to do and to be honest, at the moment they are going to be far more likely to need BSL as opposed to French or Spanish. 

[Sxph360]

My life would have been so much better if my schools knew sign language to teach me for when I can't speak. Trying to communicate without speaking whilst having bad handwriting and being awful at charades is not fun 

[Lead Academy]

British Sign Language (BSL) in mainstream schools is becoming increasingly important as awareness of the Deaf community and the need for inclusive education grows. Here's how BSL is being integrated and its benefits:

1. Curriculum Integration

• Many mainstream schools are incorporating BSL into their curriculum as a foreign language or as part of special educational needs (SEN) programs. This helps students develop a deeper understanding of linguistic diversity and enhances communication skills.

2. Communication Access

• By offering BSL, schools ensure that Deaf or hard-of-hearing students can participate fully in classroom activities, breaking down barriers in communication. It also encourages hearing students to develop an awareness of accessibility and empathy.

3. Promotes Inclusivity

• Teaching BSL fosters an inclusive atmosphere where all students, regardless of ability, feel valued. It encourages respect for diversity and promotes equal opportunities for communication.

4. Career Opportunities

• For hearing students, learning BSL can open up future career opportunities, especially in fields like social work, education, healthcare, and interpreting, where being bilingual in BSL is highly beneficial.

5. Support for Deaf Students

• BSL training ensures that mainstream teachers are equipped with basic skills to communicate with Deaf students, facilitating a more supportive learning environment. It also allows Deaf students to interact with their peers and teachers in a way that feels more natural and inclusive.

Integrating BSL into mainstream schools is a step toward building a more inclusive education system and fostering communication between Deaf and hearing communities.