“People assume that communication means listening and speaking, but BSL shows it is much more than just words.”
— Rose Ayling-Ellis

At Sunnyside Academy, we want our children to feel valued, confident, and empowered through a British Sign Language (BSL) curriculum that celebrates communication, inclusion and diversity. Our aim is to provide every child, regardless of ability, culture, background or communication style, with the opportunity to develop meaningful language skills and a deeper understanding of d/Deaf culture and the d/Deaf community.

As a school with a well-established d/Deaf Resource Base, BSL is an integral part of our school community. Pupils benefit from daily opportunities to experience and use sign language in authentic contexts, helping to foster a culture of inclusion, respect and understanding. Our unique provision enables children to develop an appreciation of different communication methods and recognise the strengths and contributions of d/Deaf individuals within our school and wider society.

We believe that learning BSL as a Modern Foreign Language broadens children’s experiences and supports them to become effective communicators in an increasingly diverse society. Through engaging and practical lessons, pupils develop their expressive and receptive signing skills, building confidence in communicating with both d/Deaf and hearing individuals.

Our curriculum is inclusive and ambitious, ensuring that all learners, including those with SEND and varied communication needs, can access and succeed. Children learn key vocabulary, conversational skills, and cultural understanding through topics that are relevant and meaningful to their lives. We celebrate the richness of d/Deaf culture and explore the contributions of d/Deaf individuals both locally and globally.

Wherever possible, we make cross-curricular links to deepen understanding and provide meaningful learning experiences. Through our BSL curriculum, we aim to:

• Develop children’s confidence and competence in using British Sign Language.
• Foster respect, empathy, and understanding of d/Deaf culture and diverse communication methods.
• Encourage curiosity about language and the wider world, promoting inclusion and effective communication.
• Strengthen memory, attention, and language learning skills through the acquisition of new vocabulary and structures.
• Equip children with communication skills that will benefit them in school, their communities and future learning.

By the time they leave Sunnyside Academy, our children will be confident communicators who value diversity, understand the importance of accessible communication, and appreciate the rich heritage of the d/Deaf community. They will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and cultural awareness to contribute positively to an inclusive society where everyone has a voice and every form of communication is respected.