How to become a communication support worker
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 British Sign Language and deaf studies degree, although it's not essential.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
College
You can do a college qualification like:
- Level 3 Award In Signing and Receiving Skills in British Sign Language
- Level 3 Certificate in British Sign Language Studies
- Level 3 Certificate in Communication Support for Deaf Learners
You'll be expected to have a level 2 sign language qualification to get onto one of these courses.
You can do further qualifications at higher levels once you start work.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
More Information
Work
You may be able to find a job as an assistant communication support worker and complete your qualifications while working.
Volunteering
Experience of working or volunteering with children with deafness or hearing loss will be useful.
Other Routes
You can do sign language training through organisations like Signature, which also offers a Certificate in Learning Support for Communication Support Workers.
More Information
Further information
You can get more advice about working in communication support from Signature.