‘If I can do it you can!’
My name is Connie Watson, I’m 76 yrs old. When I lost most of my hearing 3 years ago my life completely changed for I found it difficult communicating with my family & friends.
I heard about a Sign Language course, Level 1, and enrolled because I couldn’t bare the thought of not being able to communicate with people. As soon as I got home I regretted it and cursed myself ‘how could I learn to sign at 76 yrs old?’ I told myself if I got too stressed I would leave.
I couldn’t have been more wrong for I got hooked. Of course a couple of times I forgot some of the signs I had been taught and other times I had to put my hand up and ask again but my tutor insisted that I must never be afraid of either. She encouraged me from the start.
I couldn’t believe it when I had passed my exam but also got top marks. Through my own hard work & the help & encouragement I was given by Maria & Mel it had paid off!
My message to anyone who wants to learn BSL is ‘If I can do it you can!’. Connie Watson
When I started learning BSL level 1 I never imagined I could go on to do BSL level 2 within the same year. With the continued help and support from my tutor and friends I met within the class, my confidence grew which enabled me to pass both levels.
Also I found going to the weekly Deaf/Sign club run by my tutor, helped me gain a wider vocab and build my confidence with signing and being in the company of deaf people whom now are my friends. I am now studying Level 3. Laura Rothwell
When I started BSL level 1 I never thought I’d progress onto level 2. My tutor for Level 1 left half way through the course and was replaced by Mel, I was nervous & anxious about joining a new class, but was put at ease but the students and Mel. Mel helped me gain my confidence by passing level1 and also learning level 2 at the same time. With the help of friends on the course & Mel I have also passed level 2 which I am very happy about. But at the same time very nervous as I start level 3 soon, I am just hoping the tutor & students are as encouraging as in level 2. Sam Watson
Level 1 was interesting & fun with a lot of great criteria. Catherine Chandler.
My level 1 course has been fantastic. Every week I’ve learnt new things & met some really nice people. I’ve enjoyed the last 30 weeks immensely. Alice Phillips, student/school pupil.
Excellent enrichment & teaching was of an exemplary standard. Samantha Green
This was a very enjoyable and versatile course, which enabled me to gain basic skills & knowledge helping me to communicate with deaf people. I’m looking forward to my level 2 course. J A. Potts – Lecturer B Wigan & Leigh College
I enjoyed the course and Mel made it fun. We all got extra help where needed it has given me more confidence to go for level 2 thanks. Debbie Flanagan – Finance Assistant
I found my level 1 course to be really enjoyable, Mel was the best teacher she made everyone comfortable. I’m looking forward to working with her on level 2. Zoe
Great course can’t wait to start level 2. Les Roberts
The course has been amazing & I’m so glad to have taken part & passed level 1. It’s such a worthwhile thing to learn & opens up communicating with the deaf. I’ve had great support from my tutor Mel & fellow students. Nicola Wright – SEN Teaching Assistant