The art of Sign Language at St John Rigby

Students from St John Rigby College have spent the last term learning an important new skill. As part of the College's extensive Extended Studies programme, a group of students have learnt basic sign language. Alongside the individuals' main courses, all students enrol on classes that cover a range of non-curriculum areas from Driving Theory, Learning Japanese, College Choir and Street Dance.

The course was taught in-house and students learnt introductory sign language in preparation for further study of British Sign Language Level 1. Students studied deaf culture and investigated issues relating to how we communicate with hearing-impaired people. Key phrases and words were learnt through practical exercises, games and videos. Student Tom Murphy described the programme as very interesting and worthwhile.

Course Tutor James Gresty was impressed with the dedication and focus of the group who participated in the programme, commenting, "I am delighted that students have taken this opportunity to learn this valuable skill. I hope some of our students will want to study sign language at a higher level in the future."

Extended Studies Co-ordinator Emma Cairns added, "All of our first year students completed the Extended Studies Programme this year which saw a wide range of courses running. British Sign language is just one example of the varied extra-curricular activities on offer to all students at SJR."

All students who completed the course received a certificate from the college Principal in praise of their work.

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