A COURSE will open up a whole new world of communication to students.

North Shropshire College is offering level one and two courses in British Sign Language (BSL)

A college spokesman said: "The gift of communication can open up a whole new world and enrich our lives and experiences.

"Have you ever travelled abroad to another country and been so frustrated on not being able to make yourself understood?

"Imagine how frustrating it must be to live in your own country and not be able to communicate, that’s what thousands of people in the UK experience every day."

There are nine million people with hearing problems in the United Kingdom.

British Sign Language (BSL) was recognised by the government as an official language in 2003 alongside Welsh and Gaelic.

North Shropshire College is offering both Level 1 and 2 qualifications in BSL and is opening up the opportunity for fee waivers to those who are on a low income or in receipt of Universal Credit.

Classes start with a beginners class from 6-9pm on Monday, September 24.

An intermediate level course will start from 6-9pm the next day.

Rosemarie Sellers, programme leader for community education at the college, said: "On recent enrolment evenings we held in college it was heart-warming to hear the reasons why learners were enrolling. Many were wishing to help family members who are profoundly deaf or who are becoming deaf.

"I myself intend to gain this skill so that I can communicate with my tutor who is deaf."

To enrol, call 01691 688 000 or visit the website at www.nsc.ac.uk