What is the Signature Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation Programme? (RQF 6003/5484/7 Oct 2022)

The Signature Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation is a taught qualification that supports learners to achieve the National Occupational Standards in Interpreting.

Qualification aim

• The Signature Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation (RQF) qualification aims to provide aspiring signed language interpreters and translators with the essential knowledge, understanding and skills for a career in the signed language interpreting and translation professions.
• The theoretical model underpinning the structure of this qualification is based on a multimodal understanding of the translation process, which is defined as either ‘interlingual’ (across languages) or ‘intralingual’ (within the same language), and as either ‘intermodal’ (across modalities) or ‘intramodal’ (within the same modality).
  
  Terminology used in this qualification
  
  

This theoretical model informs  definitions for the areas of practice, called ‘streams’. We are currently delivering Stream 1.The language combination for Stream 1 is English and BSL.

Area of practice - Spoken Language (English) L1 and Sign Language (BSL) L2
Language Direction - Interlingual (across 2 different languages)
Modality Direction - Intermodal (across 2 different modes, i.e. spoken and signed)


Qualification structure

• This qualification is designed to give the candidate the flexibility to specialise in 1 or more of the 4 areas of practice covered by this qualification. We are currently delivering Stream1.
• The learning objectives and assessment criteria that make up this qualification are based on the National Occupational Standards for interpreting (CFAINT) and translation ( CFAPTra) (Instructus 2017).
• The qualification is in 2 parts. In order to complete this qualification, candidates must complete Part 1 and at least one stream in Part 2. For us that is Stream 1. 

Part 1 – Theories and principles in interpreting and translation
Covers the underpinning theories and principles of interpreting and translation. It is mandatory for all candidates.

Covering:
• LO1 Analyse and evaluate key theories and principles in interpreting and translation
• LO2 Maintain skills and systems for interpreting and translation tasks
 • LO3 Prepare for interpreting and translation assignments
• LO4 Plan and implement continuous professional development

4 x internal assessments and 1 x external assessment
Candidates must successfully complete Part 1 before moving on to Part 2


Part 2 – Undertake professional interpreting and translation assignments
This includes 12 assessments – 6 internal that we mark, and 6 that are marked externally.​

• Covering:
• One-way interpreting BSL to English and English to BSL
• Two-way interpreting
• Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting
• Co/team working
• Sight translations – written text to BSL and BSL to written text
• Remote interpreting
  Plus 4 x written evaluations (2,000 words)

Performance is measured through a variety of assessments and examinations that are built into the programme days. There are coursework assignments and practical interpreting exercises. There is no need for you to film outside of the programme, everything is built into the course.

To see the full Qualification Specification check out the Signature website here.