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Student Development Fund: Award Recipient Reports British Sign Language level 1 & 2 John Snow College students Caitlin O’Donnell, Izabela Iichovska and Lauren Horsey all chose to take up British Sign Language (BSL) as part of their University journey. Receiving a Student Development Fund Award and supported by - bsl.society@durham.ac.uk continuing to develop their skills in this area. Caitlin had started her BSL journey in her first year at University and now in second year she ‘decided to take the Level 2 BSL course this year as I had taken Level 1 in my first year and loved learning the language in such a diverse and inclusive environment. I wanted to deepen my understanding of the language, as well as Deaf culture.’ Whereas Lauren’s first introduction to British Sign Language was ‘learning how to sign the alphabet at primary school. Although I was able to sign my name, and could tell people my favourite colour, it was only once I got my first job in a coffee shop that I fully realised the benefits of being able to communicate in BSL as it would have been particularly useful when working alongside hearing-impaired co-workers, and customers.’ Izabela had also had some pre-University experience of BSL completing an introductory course, explaining ‘I vividly remember how interesting and fun it was to attend these classes with my friends. Fast forward to the first two years at University with no practice; I have already forgotten how to use the basics of finger-spelling and greetings.’ Once at Durham, although a little rusty her interest in BSL had not diminished and ‘One day, while scrolling down the news feed on Facebook, I saw a post from the BSL society at Durham that they offer courses for beginners. I was surprised to learn that we could also obtain qualifications in BSL at the end of the course by successfully completing an exam.’ Izabela, along with Caitlin and Lauren all signed up to Durham’s British Sign Language Society. Lauren stated ‘Through the Level 1 BSL course, we have covered a wide range of topics from food to time to weather, and have been introduced to a new community, as well as aspects of deaf culture. The course is engaging, and rewarding; our teacher, Susan, encourages active participation but the class environment is both supportive, and relaxed. As a result, I have found that my own confidence has developed. I would recommend the course for anyone wanting to have fun whilst learning a valuable skill - I look forward to our class every week!’ With Izabela adding ‘At first, I was a little bit nervous about who I will meet and how I will learn and progress throughout the course. With the beginning of the first classes, I managed to make new friends and learn more about signing in the every-day life. Now, I can happily say that engaging in BSL is an inspirational and eye-opening experience. The inclusivity and diversity within our growing community, makes everyone feel welcome. I cannot wait to be able to communicate freely with people using sign language.’ All three students are hugely complementary of the quality of course delivery with Caitlin stating ‘I’ve also found that this has been a fantastic second language for me to learn as in the past I’ve struggled with learning spoken languages and I’d highly recommend this course to anyone who has found language acquisition difficult in the past’ and Izabela testifying ‘I would also like to encourage more students to participate in BSL; it is worth it!
