Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps he is taking to expedite the development of a GCSE in British Sign Language.

The Government is aiming to introduce a GCSE in British Sign Language as soon as possible, so long as it proves possible to develop a qualification that meets the rigorous requirements that apply to all GCSEs. We are currently working with subject experts to develop draft subject content.

The Department will be working with Ofqual to ensure that the subject content can be assessed appropriately and will be working with stakeholders to ensure a wide range of views are reflected. We are aiming to consult publicly on draft content next year. Once final subject content has been published, it will be a matter for individual awarding organisations to decide whether to develop a specification and have this accredited by Ofqual.