SignConnects: On the Path to Ofqual Recognition
SignConnects aspires to become an Ofqual-recognised awarding body for British Sign Language, providing accredited courses to the education sector and industries committed to learning BSL. Our work goes beyond teaching; we champion inclusivity and accessibility, breaking down barriers faced by the Deaf community. By working in partnership with Deaf individuals, professionals, and experts across a range of industries, we take a holistic approach to communication and inclusivity, ensuring lasting impact and meaningful change.
Our Board of Trustees
Guiding Vision. Driving Change.
Our Board of Trustees brings together a wide range of expertise, including education specialists, Deaf professionals and non-professionals, teachers, undergraduates, teaching fellows and company directors serving the Deaf community, alongside other relevant experts. Together, they provide strong governance, uphold quality, and help shape the long-term direction of SignConnects.
Nikiaisha Thompson
Founder of SignConnects and the CEO of ClarityMatterz
Irmina StCatherine
CEO of Deaf Viewpoint and BSL Interpreter
Adrian Angol-Henry
CEO of the National Society for
Education, Mentoring and Media
and Web Design
Dana Whigan
Trustee
Ellen Tong
Trustee
Martin Cueto
Trustee
Lisa Smith
Trustee
Kolawore Oni
Trustee
Samantha Peterkin
Trustee
Our Commitment and Impact
With over 150,000 people in the UK using British Sign Language (BSL) as their first or preferred language, and an estimated 87,000 Deaf BSL users, the importance of accessible, high-quality BSL education has never been greater. Since the official recognition of BSL as a language in 2022, awareness and demand for learning have grown significantly. At SignConnects, we are proud to champion this progress by creating meaningful learning opportunities, breaking down communication barriers, and strengthening connections between Deaf and hearing communities.
Our commitment goes beyond teaching language skills; we strive to make a lasting social impact. The Deaf community in the UK faces inequalities in education, employment, healthcare, and access to public services—areas where effective communication can transform outcomes. By working in partnership with Deaf individuals, educators, and professionals across different sectors, we ensure our courses reflect real lived experiences. Through this collaborative approach, we continue to raise awareness, improve accessibility, and empower learners to embrace BSL as a vital tool for equality and inclusion.
Why Choose SignConnects?
Accredited British Sign Language
training across the UK
Curriculum shaped by Deaf
professionals and lived experience
Trusted by educators, students, and SEND practitioners
Committed to inclusion, cultural awareness and long-term impact
Transparent governance and community-led
strategy
Courses focus on skills to confidently interact in everyday settings