What can you achieve in just 15 weeks?
For Mandy Harvey, the answer was completing her British Sign Language Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications through a Skills Bootcamp with Complete Training, part of The Inclusivity Group.
Mandy first studied BSL more than 15 years ago, when completing Level 1 took her around 12 months. After more than a decade away from learning the language, she decided to return to BSL and joined our intensive combined Level 1 and Level 2 Skills Bootcamp.
Fifteen weeks later, she had completed both levels.
Returning to BSL after 15 years
Coming back to a language after such a long break gave Mandy a particularly interesting perspective on her course.
One of the things that surprised her most was how much BSL had developed since she first learned it.
Like any language, British Sign Language does not stand still. Signs, vocabulary and cultural usage naturally develop over time, reflecting changes within the Deaf community and wider society.
Mandy said:
“The most surprising part of returning to BSL was realising how much the language has evolved. Just like spoken English adds new slang and drops old phrasing, BSL naturally updates its vocabulary and cultural nuances over time.”
For Mandy, returning to the classroom was not simply about refreshing what she had previously learned. It was an opportunity to reconnect with BSL as the living, evolving language that it is.
Two levels in just 15 weeks
Completing BSL Levels 1 and 2 in 15 weeks is intensive.
Our Skills Bootcamps are designed to give learners the structure, teaching, resources and support they need to make that intensity achievable.
Alongside live teaching, learners have access to our online learning portal, providing additional resources and opportunities to practise outside the classroom.
For Mandy, having those resources available when she needed to revisit something made a real difference.
“We all know that feeling during practice when your mind suddenly goes completely blank. Having a digital homework resource to log into on those tough evenings made all the difference.”
She also highlighted the organisation and structure of the programme, as well as the support available when learners needed help.
Learning from Deaf BSL teachers
At Complete Training, our BSL courses are Deaf created and Deaf led, with learners being taught by native BSL using teachers.
Mandy was taught by Sharon Saunders and Bethany Tate, who supported the group throughout the intensive programme.
For Mandy, their teaching was one of the most important parts of the experience:
“The level of teaching on this Bootcamp was superb. Our teachers, Sharon and Beth, were the absolute backbone of the experience. Throughout the entire 15 weeks, they remained incredibly professional, supportive and approachable, no matter how many times we needed to review a sign.”
That support is particularly important on an intensive programme.
Learning BSL is about much more than memorising signs. Learners develop their receptive and productive skills, confidence, understanding of BSL structure and, importantly, their knowledge and understanding of Deaf culture and community.
“I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it”
Perhaps the best way to describe Mandy’s experience is in her own words:
“If you are thinking about learning BSL, or if you have been away from it for years like I was, do not let the fast pace of a Bootcamp intimidate you. With the right structure, modern digital tools and brilliant teachers, it is amazing how much you can achieve in just 15 weeks.
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.”
We could not have put it better ourselves.
Could you be next?
Complete Training is proud to deliver British Sign Language training from introductory courses through to Signature accredited BSL qualifications, including Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3.
We also deliver funded Skills Bootcamp opportunities, subject to eligibility and available funding, giving eligible learners the opportunity to develop valuable BSL skills while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.
Whether you are completely new to BSL, returning after several years away, looking to develop your skills for work, or hoping to progress further within the language, our team can help you find the right route.
You do not need to already know BSL to start.
You just need to be ready to learn.
Interested in joining Mandy and our other learners?
Find out more about our British Sign Language courses and current Skills Bootcamp opportunities through Complete Training and apply for your place today.
Skills Bootcamp places are subject to eligibility criteria, funding availability and programme requirements.