Conversational British Sign Language (Self Guided Course)

Communicate with greater range and independence

Conversational BSL is designed for learners who can already communicate comfortably in routine British Sign Language conversations and want to develop their skills further.

Move beyond familiar exchanges and strengthen your ability to understand connected BSL, express detailed information and communicate across everyday, social and workplace situations.

What will I learn?

Through 30 structured lessons, you will develop your ability to:

• Understand connected BSL: Follow longer signed conversations, explanations, narratives and discussions, identifying important information and details.
• Sustain conversations: Ask follow-up questions, exchange information, request clarification and respond more independently in familiar situations.
• Describe and explain: Communicate detailed information, explain familiar ideas and give connected directions and instructions.
• Narrate experiences: Recount events, describe experiences and organise information into clear, meaningful signed narratives.
• Discuss opinions and alternatives: Express views, explain reasons, compare options and discuss straightforward problems or solutions.
• Manage less predictable situations: Develop greater flexibility when communicating in social, workplace and everyday service settings.

Throughout the course, you will strengthen your understanding of BSL grammar, facial expressions, signing space, depiction and other features that contribute to meaningful signed communication.

How does the course work?

The course includes signed learning materials, activities and quizzes designed to develop vocabulary, grammar, receptive and productive skills.

Study independently, review previous lessons and practise at your own pace throughout your annual subscription.

No live classes, tutor support, individual marking or personalised feedback are included.

Who is this course for?

Conversational BSL is suitable for learners who already have established BSL skills and can manage routine conversations, descriptions and instructions.

You may have completed Confident BSL or developed your skills through other learning or regular use.

Certificate of completion

Conversational BSL is mapped to B1 of the CEFR. You will receive a certificate of completion after completing the required course content.

Important: Conversational BSL is not CPD-accredited and does not lead to a regulated Signature qualification. Its B1 CEFR mapping does not establish equivalence to Signature Level 3 or guarantee entry to an accredited course.

Looking for taught or accredited learning? Explore BSL First’s qualification pathways or book a skills-assessment interview to identify your next step.