Our Curriculum

Philip Southcote School hosts a Deaf Pupil Provision (DPP) where many Deaf students use British Sign Language (BSL) for communication. For some DPP students, BSL is their primary or chosen form of communication. As part of our inclusive community, we aim to ensure that all students learn basic signing skills to communicate effectively with their Deaf peers.

BSL has received significant exposure in the media recently, with more Deaf individuals in prominent roles and its legal recognition as a language. Furthermore, BSL is in the process of becoming a GCSE option in some secondary schools, making it an exciting time for this beautiful language.

At Philip Southcote, we provide resources for staff and students to learn alongside one another, with all year groups studying the same content to encourage practice outside the classroom. Our weekly 20-minute lessons build on previous learning, using a cyclical curriculum that enables students to apply signs in various contexts, such as numbers related to age, money, and dates.

Classes will be supported by BSL Ambassadors—DPP students—at various points throughout the year to clarify misconceptions and enhance fluency. This BSL curriculum will launch in 2024 and will roll out over the next five years for Key Stages 3 and 4. Resources will also be available for the sixth form and satellite centres, although individual timetables may affect access.

BSL Subject Rational

BSL Learning Journey