Exmouth residents are being given the chance to to learn some British Sign Language as the town prepares to welcome the New Deaf Academy in April.

SignUp BSL's Emily Wakley will be hosting a two-day course at Ocean in February to help residents communicate with Deaf people.

Participants will learn the alphabet, greetings, numbers, the time, days of the week, how to talk about the weather, and how to give directions in British Sign Language, plus conversation skills.

Emily is profoundly deaf, holds an NVQ level 6 in BSL and is an associate lecturer, module convenor and assessor at the University of Exeter, as wall as the Director of SignUp BSL.

Speaking ahead of the event Emily said: "As a lot of us know, the New Deaf Academy is moving in in April and they are still looking for donations. I am delivering a weekend of Sign Language fun at the Ocean and all proceeds will go to the appeal.

"SignUp BSL is a social purpose business. Our vision is of a society where deafness is not a barrier to independence, achievement or fulfilment.

"We are dedicated to advancing that vision by increasing the awareness and use of BSL in the community and by being a positive employer of Deaf people.

"Our goal is to contribute to a more equal society, with improved access for Deaf people, by offering high quality BSL training for individuals and organisations."

The two-day course will take place at Ocean, Queens Drive, on Saturday, February 29, and Sunday, March 1, between 10am and 4pm.

To book your place email [email protected] or call 01392 267019.

The Deaf Academy in Exeter is trying to raise £250,000 to build a brand new academy in the town, delivering the 'world-class education and residential care that our inspiring students deserve'.

All of the proceeds from the course will be donated to the New Deaf Academy appeal, find out more by clicking the red button below.