About me

My name is Michelle Raperport‑Smyth, and I am a Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) user whose journey with signing has shaped both my life and my work. BSL is not just a language I teach — it’s my first language, my culture, and the way I connect with the world around me. In fact, I often joke that I was signing before I could walk…and some days, it still feels that way.

My involvement in the Deaf community began long before I became a qualified BSL tutor. For over five years, I volunteered with Access Bedford, becoming closely involved in a community I cared deeply about. I spent evenings in the BSL café chatting with Deaf locals, helped organise Halloween events for Deaf children, supported adult Deaf quiz nights, and assisted with community Christmas dinners. If there was an event, I was probably there and usually with a smile, a story, and occasionally a tray of mince pies.

In 2018, I was honoured to receive the Signature Community Award, recognising my contribution to the Deaf community. It remains one of my proudest achievements, partly because it reflects the values I care about most — inclusion, connection, and community spirit — and partly because it proved that all those late nights organising events were worth it.

As a tutor with more than 16 years of experience, I bring my lived experience as a Deaf BSL user into every class I teach. I’ve delivered sessions in group classes, workshops, and community events, helping learners build confidence and develop real, meaningful communication skills. My teaching style is warm, clear, and accessible — and I always encourage learners to relax, enjoy themselves, and not worry if their hands occasionally decide to invent their own signs. It happens to the best of us.

I am passionate about creating inclusive spaces, promoting Deaf awareness, and bringing people together through British Sign Language. Whether I’m teaching someone their very first sign or helping a group grow in fluency, my goal is always the same: to help people communicate, connect, and feel part of something bigger — and to enjoy the journey along the way.

Learn British Sign Language

At SignMotion, we guide you through BSL Level 1 and Level 2 with friendly, hands‑on lessons designed for learners of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re completely new to signing or building on existing skills, our classes are structured to help you grow with confidence.

We focus on real‑life communication, practical signing, and a supportive learning environment where everyone feels welcome. Our sessions are interactive, visual, and engaging — no pressure, no judgement, just steady progress at your own pace. You’ll learn through conversation, activities, and everyday scenarios, making BSL both meaningful and enjoyable.

With a Deaf tutor who brings lived experience, cultural insight, and a warm sense of humour to every class, you’ll not only learn the language but also gain a deeper understanding of the Deaf community and Deaf culture.

At SignMotion, learning BSL isn’t just about passing a level — it’s about connecting, communicating, and discovering the joy of signing in a space where everyone can thrive.

Our Courses

Learn British Sign Language at your own pace with supportive lessons.

BSL Level 2

BSL Level 1

Start your BSL journey with basic signs and everyday communication skills, designed to help you communicate clearly and confidently from day one

Build on the basics and develop the confidence to hold more detailed conversations, understand structure, and use BSL grammar correctly.