British Sign Language interpreter

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role
• a trainee scheme

University

You'll need a degree or level 6 award in both British Sign Language and interpreting.

You would also need an approved qualification in interpreting like:

• postgraduate or master's degree in interpreting or translation
• Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

You could work for an organisation that supports deaf people, or in a school or college, for example, as an educational support assistant. You could then do your British Sign Language qualifications on the job to qualify as an interpreter.

Volunteering

Getting involved in clubs or centres for deaf people is a good way of getting experience and may give you the opportunity to get relevant training.

OtherRoutes

You could qualify by registering as a trainee sign language interpreter (TSLI). To register, you'll need:

• a degree or level 6 award in your first language - either English or British Sign Language (BSL)
• a minimum of level 4, above A level standard, in your second language - either English or BSL

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• good language skills
• knowledge of English language
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work on your own
• active listening skills
• concentration skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to read English
• excellent written communication skills
• administration skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• a good memory
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters help deaf and hearing people communicate with one another.

In your day-to-day duties you may have to:

• prepare before assignments by finding out about the situation and any specialist vocabulary
• travel to different sites to interpret in a variety of situations
• use technology to provide 'virtual' interpreting services
• listen carefully to, or watch, what is said or signed
• interpret what is said or signed
• find the best way to express everything that is said or signed
• do admin tasks like paperwork or booking appointments

Location : You could work at a client's business, from home or in an office.

Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends flexibly

Career Path:

You could teach and assess others, sign at theatre productions or television performances, or move into research.

You could also become self-employed and work freelance.