Ofqual announces rules for British Sign Language GCSE

Ofqual has set out rules for the assessment of a new GCSE in British Sign Language (BSL).

The regulations have been set following a second consultation and detailed collaborative working with organisations and people across deaf and hearing communities. 

The rules are designed to ensure the arrangements are appropriate for a GCSE qualification for new learners of the language, and as accessible as possible for students who use BSL as their first or primary language.

The BSL GCSE will assess students’ ability to comprehend BSL, produce signs accurately, interact using BSL, and demonstrate understanding of the history of BSL. The qualification includes both exams and non-exam assessments. 

Catherine Large, Executive Director of Policy at Ofqual, said: "The rules represent another significant milestone, a necessary and important step towards establishing this new and unique British Sign Language GCSE. It could help bring communities together by improving communication between deaf and hearing people.

"We are pleased the rules are now in place after detailed work alongside awarding organisations and BSL subject matter specialists, including those within the deaf community. We would like to thank everyone who has helped us to develop the regulations and those who responded to the consultation.

"The regulations ensure the qualification will be high quality and meet rigorous standards."

Any interested exam boards will now develop their specific offers, which would then go through Ofqual’s accreditation process.