How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- working towards this role
- training with a professional body
University
You can do a foundation degree or a degree in British Sign Language (BSL) and deaf studies.
Some knowledge of BSL will be helpful when you apply, though this is not always essential.
After finishing your course, you could go on to complete a teaching qualification, like a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE), which you may need if you want to teach in schools.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You can do a Level 1 and 2 Certificate in British Sign Language (BSL) before moving on to a higher level qualification.
Employers including schools and colleges usually look for a minimum of a Level 3 or 4 Certificate in British Sign Language. Some will ask for a Level 6 Certificate.
To work as a BSL teacher, you'll normally be expected to have a qualification in your own subject area aside from BSL, and a teaching qualification.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Work
You can start as a sign language teaching assistant or communication support worker and do training on the job to get a British Sign Language (BSL) qualification at level 3 or higher.
You can then do further study for a teaching or training qualification to become a BSL teacher.
You can also train in BSL, if you're already working as a teacher in a school or college.
Other Routes
You can complete British Sign Language (BSL) qualifications with a professional body like Signature. Qualifications start from introductory level up to level 6.
It is recommended that you work towards a Level 6 Certificate in British Sign Language, if you want be a BSL teacher.
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Further information
You can find out more about how to become a British Sign Language teacher from Signature.