Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation
Join our BSL Level 6 course and take the step into the world of professional interpreting.
Application Form
Accredited Course UK standard qualifications
INtroduction
Welcome to the Information Page for Level 6 Sign Language Interpreting and Translation
Our new Level 6 courses start in January. We offer an adaptable, interpreter-led course based on the current Signature BSL Level 6 Interpreting and Translation specification. We offer one stream;
Stream 1: BSL to English Interpreting
Our interpreting course is taught and assessed continuously throughout its duration. Unlike previous interpreting courses, Part 1 and Part 2 will run concurrently.
Accreditation and faculty:
The course is Signature accredited and designed by interpreters for interpreters. The taught sessions are delivered by qualified teachers who themselves are out there in the field as professional BSL interpreters. The course has been crafted to give you the very best in learning how to adapt your British Sign Language skills to the broader domains required of interpreters; skills, ability, mindset, professionalism and business acumen.
Your learning Environment and follow-up CPD:
Our centre is geared towards a positive learning environment, and you are also given your own personal tutorials. Once completed you will be given 1 free CPD workshop, which will start your CPD journey. You will also receive a discount on any of our CPD courses for the following 18 months.
This course runs monthly on the second Friday and Saturday of the month at Appa House in Lewisham. Non-Lewisham residents have the option of attending via Zoom, although face-to-face tuition is strongly encouraged if you can make the journey.
NUS Membership
Anyone attending will be able to apply for NUS membership and receive the Totum NUS Student card. A tremendous bonus, the Totum card gives students discounts on a large selection of goods and services. For more information check out the NUS website.
For ages 16+
Course Units
Learning Outcomes
Covers the underpinning theories and principles of interpreting and translation. It is mandatory for all candidates.
- LO 1) Analyse and evaluate key theories and principles in interpreting and translation
- LO 2) Maintain skills and systems for interpreting and translation tasks
- LO 3) Prepare for interpreting and translation assignments
- LO 4) Plan and implement continuous professional development
Covers the practical skills required for professional interpreting and translating.
- LO 1) Carry out interpreting tasks as a professional interpreter
- LO 2) Work as part of a team of professional interpreters and translators
- LO 3) Use technology effectively to perform remote interpreting assignments
- LO 4) Carry out translation tasks as a professional translator
- LO 5) Evaluate performance as a professional interpreter or translator
find your answers here
frequently asked questions
What are the course requirements?
A Signature accredited Level 6 Certificate in British Sign Language.
Spoken English at C2 level or equivalent if you are not a native English speaker. All applicants will have an English assessment.
British Sign Language Level 6 or equivalent if you are not a native BSL user. All applicants will have a BSL assessment.
What payment options are available?
Fees can be paid upfront or in instalments. For this course, you can pay in up to 18 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.
All candidates must be assessed. This costs £50 but is deducted from your course fee if you successfully join the upcoming course.
Payment Plans interest free up to 18 monthly payments
What are the aims of the course?
The Signature Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation (RQF) qualification aims to provide aspiring signed language interpreters and translators with the essential knowledge, understanding and skills for a career in the signed language interpreting and translation professions.
The theoretical model underpinning the structure of this qualification is based on a multimodal understanding of the translation process, which is defined as either ‘interlingual’ (across languages) or ‘intralingual’ (within the same language), and as either ‘intermodal’ (across modalities) or ‘intramodal’ (within the same modality).
The learning objectives and assessment criteria that make up this qualification are based on the National Occupational Standards for Interpreting (CFAINT) and Translation (CFAPTra) (Instructus 2017).
What does this qualification enable?
This qualification is suitable for people who are either currently working within the field of signed language interpreting and translation or are aspiring towards a career as a professional sign language interpreter or translator.
At the end of the qualification candidates will be able to:
- Demonstrate good practice in their area of professional activity
- Demonstrate their ability to carry out interpreting or translation assignments to a professional standard
- Be fully aware of the role of the professional interpreter or translator and the principles of professional practice
- Evaluate and reflect on performance
- Promote personal and professional development
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.
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.
If you have any questions you like to ask please do get in contact. Details are at the bottom of the page.
Learn before you start
Study Tips!
Signature provides a student resources that talks about the course requirements, structure, nature of assessments and lists a number of resources and references;
To get started on the theory and professional application of interpreting and translation have a look at these;