Professional Communication
Support

Accredited Course UK standard qualifications

Welcome to the Level 3 Communication Support Worker course!
The aim of this advanced qualification is that learners will acquire the essential knowledge, understanding and skills for a career in Professional Communication Support with Notetaking for those who are deaf or deafblind, whose first language is English.
At the end of the qualification, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate good practice in their area of professional activity
- Demonstrate their ability to carry out professional
communication assignments to a professional standard - Be fully aware of the role of someone working in the field of
professional communication support - Evaluate and reflect on performance
- Promote personal and professional development
The course has two parts. Part 1 covers general theory for all participants. Part 2 has a number of optional streams that lead to a particular specialisation. Here at Appa we offer the choices of:
Stream 2: Notetaking
- Understand the different methods and purposes of Electronic and manual note-taking for different clients in different settings.
Stream 6: Communication Support in Education and Training
- Know and understand the structure of education and training, along with the types of support required within different educational settings.
- Participants must have a BSL Level 3 qualification
- On course completion a participant can register as a TSLI

Part 1: Preparing
Learn the underpinning knowledge and key facts about of deafness and deafblindness.
LO1: Know key facts about deafness and deafblindness and communication tactics
LO2: Understand the impact of being deaf/deafblind in a hearing world
LO3: Be able to modify language to make it accessible for deaf and deafblind people
LO4: Know how to prepare for professional assignments

Part 2: Undertaking
Learn the practical skills required for practice.
LO1: Be able to apply the principles within one or more areas of practice
LO2: Carry out professional assignments within one or more areas of practice to a professional standard
LO3: Work as part of a team with a co-worker
LO4: Use technology effectively to perform remote assignments within one or more areas of practice
LO5: Evaluate performance and plan/implement continuous professional development

frequently asked questions

Where can I find more course content details?
The best place to find more details on the course itself is on the Signature Specifications page.
Is there remote access?
This course is face-to-face and available for remote access via Zoom. The course is live and not pre-recorded, so attendance must be on time and for the duration.
What are the course requirements?
Learners must:
- For Stream 2 Notetaking: English at GCSE level or equivalent. Ideally, at A-Level equivalent.
- For Stream 3 Communication Support in Education and Training: Level 3 in British Sign Language
What payment options are available?
Fees can be paid upfront or in instalments. For this course, you can pay in 3, 6 or 9 monthly instalments. We use a payment processor that will automatically take payment from your account on the same day every month.
All payment plans are interest-free, and all prices are inclusive. You only pay what you see. The main rule is that the first payment must be made before classes start. Places can be reserved for a £50 deposit, which is deducted from your first payment.
Payment Plans
Full payment, 3 monthly, 6 monthly, 9 monthly
Who are Signature and why do they matter?
Signature specifies and accredits BSL qualifications in the UK under OFQUAL. A Signature qualification is recorded under your National Learning Record, is portable across other national accredited bodies and is regulated for quality.
Study Tips!
BSL uses finger spelling for names or information that may not have a sign. It’s really important to master this skill. Click to download a pdf.
Similarly, BSL uses fingers for numbers; Another really important skill to learn. Click to download a pdf.
Here are some useful resources that will help you with your studies:
- Action Deafness Books – www.actiondeafnessbooks.org.uk
- Signature’s BSL Online Homework – www.bslhomework.org.uk
- Signature’s Homework DVDs – shop.signature.org.uk
- ITV Signpost – www.signpostbsl.com
- Sign Station – www.signstation.org