Introduction to British sign Language

Hosted by Power House

Connect first. Learn after. Communicate in a new language.
If you’re located in the Swindon area and looking to learn British sign language this course is for you.

🗓︎ September 2nd - Oct 7th

🕖︎ Two times available: 6 - 7 pm first session or 7.30pm - 8.30pm second session
📍︎ Berts Books - 54 Godwin Ct, Swindon SN1 4BB
👥︎ For anyone looking to build a new language skill
🎟︎ Pay in advance for one of the sessions
🎫︎ Spaces are limited — please book early
☕︎ Coffee available on site

✨ The Heart of the Course

We’ll learn, we’ll practice, and we’ll communicate together.

This 6-week course is relaxed, supportive, and fully guided—no prior experience needed. Meeting for one hour each week, you’ll be introduced to the basics of British Sign Language (BSL), learning everyday signs, simple conversations, and how to express yourself with confidence.

Each session builds step by step, with plenty of opportunities to practise, ask questions, and grow at your own pace. It’s a friendly and encouraging space where everyone is learning together.

More than just a course, it’s a chance to develop a new skill, connect with others, and become more inclusive in how we communicate.

Top Tips Remember

  • Don’t worry about getting everything perfect—focus on learning and enjoying the process.

  • Practice little and often—repetition helps build confidence.

  • Be expressive—facial expressions and body language are part of BSL.

  • Ask questions—the tutor is there to guide and support you.

  • Encourage one another—learning together makes it easier and more fun.

To note

This course does not offer certification. It is taught by a qualified British Sign Language instructor who also delivers accredited courses, but this particular course is designed purely as an introduction. It focuses on practical learning in a classroom environment and does not lead to an official qualification.

Meet the course leader

My name is Michelle Raperport‑Smyth, and I am a Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) user whose journey with signing has shaped both my life and my work. BSL is not just a language I teach — it’s my first language, my culture, and the way I connect with the world around me. In fact, I often joke that I was signing before I could walk…and some days, it still feels that way.

My involvement in the Deaf community began long before I became a qualified BSL tutor. For over five years, I volunteered with Access Bedford, becoming closely involved in a community I cared deeply about. I spent evenings in the BSL café chatting with Deaf locals, helped organise Halloween events for Deaf children, supported adult Deaf quiz nights, and assisted with community Christmas dinners. If there was an event, I was probably there and usually with a smile, a story, and occasionally a tray of mince pies.

In 2018, I was honoured to receive the Signature Community Award, recognising my contribution to the Deaf community. It remains one of my proudest achievements, partly because it reflects the values I care about most — inclusion, connection, and community spirit — and partly because it proved that all those late nights organising events were worth it.

As a tutor with more than 16 years of experience, I bring my lived experience as a Deaf BSL user into every class I teach. I’ve delivered sessions in group classes, workshops, and community events, helping learners build confidence and develop real, meaningful communication skills. My teaching style is warm, clear, and accessible — and I always encourage learners to relax, enjoy themselves, and not worry if their hands occasionally decide to invent their own signs. It happens to the best of us.

I am passionate about creating inclusive spaces, promoting Deaf awareness, and bringing people together through British Sign Language. Whether I’m teaching someone their very first sign or helping a group grow in fluency, my goal is always the same: to help people communicate, connect, and feel part of something bigger — and to enjoy the journey along the way.

Website Link