Review - Sign Language in Sheffield
Combining a hobby that will make a difference to people's lives, Naomi Jarrett, Sheffield University Graduate, is discovering that sign language has put a definite spring in her step ...
I studied science at A level and at Uni and never thought of myself as a ‘languagey person’. And yet now I am thoroughly enjoying learning a language at evening class . . . . . . yes, I am learning to sign. Or more officially, I am studying British Sign Language (BSL) at the Sheffield College.
I love learning to sign. It’s certainly challenging but also a lot of fun. It’s like no other subject I have learnt before; you can’t take notes and the best way to practise is to pop down to the local deaf club for a drink and a chat with friends! It’s also very satisfying to know that I am now able to communicate with the not so small minority of deaf people in the UK who use BSL as their first language (over 50,000). And yes, it is British sign language. A common misconception is that sign language is universal but it develops like any other language and so actually it’s really regional. As a southerner I find it quite amusing that I now sign with a Sheffield accent!
Having studied for a while now, I am really keen to continue to learn BSL to the highest level and hope to work as an interpreter in the future. I was interested to discover recently that the first people to work as sign interpreters were church workers. And as a Christian I have a real passion to see the church again play a role in ensuring that deaf people, just as any other minority people group, are fully included in all areas of society.
The Sheffield College offers a range of sign language and deaf awareness courses from beginners to advanced. Check out their website for more details: http:// www.sheffcol.ac.uk
Star Rating: 5 out 5