In this section:
Welcome to the BSL section of Portsmouth City of Languages
On this page you will find details of where to learn and practice British Sign Language (BSL) in Portsmouth and details of events and organisations.
British Sign Language is a visual language incorporating signs, facial expressions and gesture. BSL has its own grammatical structure which differs from English language structures and, like other languages, has its own regional variations and colloquialisms. British Sign Language is part of deaf culture which includes its own arts, history, education and events. It cannot be used internationally as each country has its own sign language.
British Sign Language is used by approximately 87,000 deaf people in the UK. It was legally recognised as a language in England, Scotland and Wales in June 2022 after a successful campaign led by deaf organisations and BSL users across the UK, which followed previous formal recognition in 2003. This recent official recognition will enable users to access greater language inclusivity and equality, as BSL gains recognition and promotion across public services and education.
A GCSE in British Sign Language is currently under development which will enable our young people to learn this beautiful language and increase deaf awareness in educational settings and the community.
Where to learn BSL in Portsmouth
Two centres offer BSL training in the city:
- City of Portsmouth College offers introductory BSL, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 courses.
- University of Portsmouth offers their students the chance to learn BSL.
Qualifications are awarded through Signature, the leading awarding organisation for BSL qualifications.
Deaf/BSL events in Portsmouth
Upcoming signed theatre performances
The King’s Theatre:
- The Lightning Thief: Wednesday 5 November 2025, 7.30pm – BSL
- Aladdin: Saturday 6 December 2025, 10:30am – BSL
- Barnham: Wednesday 11 March 2026, 2.30 – BSL
Theatre Royal Portsmouth:
- Snow White: Sunday 14 December 2025, 11am – BSL signed performance
Portsmouth Guildhall:
- Cinderella: Saturday 27 December 2026, 2.30pm – BSL interpreted performance
BSL GCSE
A GCSE in British Sign Language is currently under development which will enable our young people to learn this beautiful language and increase deaf awareness in educational settings and the community. Further details will be shared in due course.
History/information about BSL
BSL resources
BSL Books – LOTE4Kids
LOTE4Kids is an online collection of digital children’s books in over 70 languages, including British Sign Language. It offers children access to picture books that can be enjoyed either on a computer or mobile device through the free app. The collection includes over 4500 books and children can read or listen to books in their own language along with bilingual versions too.
To browse the collection on a computer, go to the LOTE 4 Kids website, find Portsmouth Libraries and Archives in the menu and tap in your Portsmouth Library card number. There is no need for a PIN or password. Alternatively download the app onto a mobile device – the app is available from the Apple App store and Google Play.
QR code – SignLive
Gunwharf is using SignLive around their site. This is an app that can be used to access an interpreter instantly.
The QR code for this can be found at the guest services or there any be information up around Gunwharf. This can help BSL users to access services at shops, restaurants and services in the harbour area.