THIRTEEN women and a man have passed an introduction to British Sign Language course in Plymouth.

The 14 students passed their sign language exams at the Plymouth School of British Sign Language, which opened at the Pilgrim Study Centre at Home Park last year.

They are the first people at the school to pass the introductory course. School administrator Paul Craven said they had done ‘exceptionally well’.

He said: “We are very pleased with how the students progressed through the 11-week course. We were so thrilled when they all passed.

They are aged between 16 and 60. A good many of those on the course are going into the higher level courses at the school now.”

Students from the Plymouth School of British Sign Language receive certificates. From left to right Amy O'Melia, Lynda Craven, Sue Bevans (teacher), Cherlyn Brown, Simon Bevans, Alison Cox, Lynne Booth, Margaret Codognotto, Karen McKee, Jo' Hook, Anneka Vowden, Sue Vowden, Paul Craven (School Administrator) and Debbie Lake

The school was set up to help provide skills and qualifications for people who want to communicate with the deaf.

Mr Craven said there had been a ‘lack’ of providers for teaching British Sign Language in Plymouth – and he was really pleased with the success of the school so far.

He said: “It is not just an important skill for families and friends – it’s now an important skill for people in customer services.”