British Sign Language (BSL) Level 6 Certificate

Wednesday 10th September 2025
Zoom
Every Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9.30pm
36 weeks
Signature
£1850 excluding exam fees

£100 deposit to secure your place!

Payment Options: Available to pay 10 months in instalments at no extra cost

Lynday Speight

I’ve come back for a second year so it can’t be that bad 🤭  The 1st group I joined for Level 6 was too big – too many on screen for it to feel effective, I am much happier now in my smaller group.   I feel that some of the questions could do with being revamped into something more current.  Overall – I wish Bob would start the interpreter training as I would stay for that too!!

BSL Level 4 & 6 – 2023-2025

Hannah Anderson

Starting out, I found learning sign language with Bob quite challenging because it was all new to me. Although I had completed level 2 BSL back in 2005, it felt like a long time ago. Currently, I’m studying BSL level 6 with Bob, and I must admit, I initially felt overwhelmed. However, Bob has been incredibly supportive throughout the process. He patiently repeats concepts until I understand them and dedicates a lot of time to help me progress.  Thanks to Bob, I’ve not only improved my sign language skills but also gained valuable insights into deaf culture and learned about new criteria. Bob’s teaching has helped me polish up my BSL proficiency significantly. I’m truly grateful for his dedication and support.  I wholeheartedly recommend Bob to anyone interested in learning BSL at any level.

BSL Level 6 – 2024

Seanne Grant

I enjoy this course. I like Bob’s sense of humour and the two hours goes by very quickly.  I like the Jargon time – it gets us used to discussing and introducing new signs/words.   I like the questions that we research for the discussion, and that we get to speak about them.

BSL Level 6 – 2024-2025

Seon Anderson

Bob McCluskey is my BSL teacher for level 6. He excels in teaching, is humble, and ensures that I understand the material well, whether it’s for lessons, assessments, or paperwork. Additionally, he motivates me to embrace challenges and develop confidence. As for Julia McCluskey, she serves as an Executive Assistant. She demonstrates exceptional responsiveness and efficiency in sorting out various tasks.

BSL Level 6 – Tutor – 2024

Briony King

Bob was friendly and happy to go at a slower pace for those of us just starting off with no Makaton
experience. Photo images when learning new vocab I found helpful – had no worries about the
exam.

BSL Level 1 to 6 - 2018 to 2022

Sarah Clews

I am happy with the course. I feel that Bob has addressed any concerns well and has handled the concerns of all students well. Bob is good with checking questions with signature and letting us know. I find the video clips useful at the end of the class, pausing them to discuss and check we understand, it has been great.

Level 6 – Zoom - 2020/2021

AJ

So overall i can say it has been a good learning experience with Bob.  Bob is a  really good teacher, he is clear when he signs, he controls the group well and respectfully and overall I am pleased with him as a teacher!

BSL Level 4 & 6 – 2023 to 2025

Jonathan Clarke

When I first time met Bob and discussed whether Level 3 or Level 6 could be good for me, we signed/chatted for 15 minutes, I was surprised that Bob though I could do Level 6.  I had passed Level 2 and jumped to Level 6!  I’ve learnt a lot with Bob and he has encouraged me to work hard and with lots of research. I have also built up more confidence in myself as I gained experience and getting to know the Level 6’s criteria.

BSL Level 6 – 2023-2025

Michaela Wright

I’ve really enjoyed the BSL Level 6 course so far. The weeks are well-organised, and each session is both engaging and informative. Although I was initially nervous about doing the course via Zoom, I’ve found it to be surprisingly comfortable and effective. I especially appreciate the opportunity to attend weekly sessions instead of the longer weekend sessions held monthly that other providers offer – this format has made learning much more manageable and consistent. Overall, I’m really happy with my progress and the structure of the course.

BSL Level 6 – 2024-2025

Gary Del Bono

Bob’s classes have been the highlight of my week for the past four years.  During my level 6 studies, I have learnt an incredible amount thanks to Bob.  His teaching style is great and engaging and is always set out in such a way that I feel I am learning without realising.  Thank you Bob!

BSL level 1 to 6 - 2017 - 2021

Become Professionally Fluent in British Sign Language

The BSL Level 6 Certificate is the highest-level language qualification before formal interpreter training. This intensive and rewarding course builds on prior knowledge from Level 4 (or equivalent), and prepares learners for expert-level communication with Deaf individuals in both professional and academic settings.

Whether you’re pursuing a career as a BSL interpreter, working in Deaf education or advocacy, or aiming to master BSL to a degree-equivalent level, this course will equip you with the fluency, confidence, and cultural awareness needed to thrive.

Course Overview

Accredited by Signature, this qualification aligns with Level 6 of the National Occupational Standards for Languages and C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)—equivalent to an undergraduate degree in modern languages.

Throughout this course, you will develop:

  • Near-native fluency in British Sign Language
  • Confidence in producing and understanding complex language
  • Proficiency in discussing abstract and theoretical topics
  • Strong analytical and linguistic insight into BSL structure and grammar

You’ll be taught through dynamic and supportive sessions, with regular opportunities for group work, live presentations, feedback, and cultural exploration.

Course Structure

This qualification is divided into six manageable units, assessed through both internal and external evaluations:

  • 6ASS1, 6ASS2, 6ASS3 – Internal assessments (receptive, productive & interaction)
  • 6ASS4, 6ASS5, 6ASS6 – External assessments (video recordings & live assessments)

Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 180 hours of independent home study and practical BSL use alongside weekly classes.

What Will You Learn?

  • Communicate effectively and fluently in complex social, academic, and professional situations
  • Demonstrate understanding of BSL linguistics theory and apply it to real-world communication
  • Deliver structured and engaging presentations on abstract topics
  • Handle spontaneous discussions, debates, and problem-solving in BSL
  • Analyse and interpret advanced language forms, including regional variations, NMFs, and role-shifting
  • Deepen your awareness of Deaf culture, history, and the role of BSL in contemporary society

Topics Covered

You’ll engage with a wide range of relevant and thought-provoking themes:

  • Medicine & Health
  • Education
  • Employment & Business
  • Finance
  • Politics & Law
  • Society & Community
  • Media & Communication
  • Science & Technology

These topics will be explored through real-life contexts, presentations, and assignments that reflect the complexity of professional BSL use.

Who is This Course For?

The BSL Level 6 Certificate is ideal for:

  • Learners who have completed BSL Level 4 and want to progress to full fluency
  • Professionals who work with Deaf individuals in education, healthcare, interpreting, or advocacy
  • Those pursuing a career in BSL interpreting or translation
  • Anyone with a passion for the language and culture of the Deaf community

Who is This Course For?

  • You must have successfully completed BSL Level 4 or equivalent
  • A short skills assessment may be required to confirm suitability for Level 6 learning

Outcomes & Progression

Upon successful completion of this qualification, learners will be able to:

  • Sign at a high professional standard with confidence and clarity
  • Demonstrate advanced receptive and productive skills
  • Communicate in BSL across a wide range of complex scenarios
  • Use the qualification as evidence to access Level 6 Interpreter Training
  • Work independently with Deaf people in professional and voluntary roles
  • Join a growing network of skilled and culturally aware BSL users