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<p>The department published British Sign Language (BSL) GCSE subject content in December
2023, following a public consultation last summer. Exam boards are now able to develop
detailed specifications, which must be reviewed and accredited by the Office of Qualifications
and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) before schools and colleges are able to teach
them. The department does not play a role in developing or approving exam board specifications
for GCSEs.</p><p> </p><p>Only ancient or modern foreign language (MFL) GCSEs count
towards the languages pillar of the English Baccalaureate (EBacc). The BSL GCSE does
not sit in the MFL suite as it is not a foreign language but an indigenous one and
does not contain the speaking and listening elements common to all MFL GCSEs. While
the BSL GCSE will therefore not count towards the EBacc, it will be a rigorous qualification
that is internationally recognised and accepted in school and college performance
tables.</p><p> </p><p>The department is considering the steps that can be taken to
support the delivery of the BSL GCSE when it is introduced, such as engaging with
initial teacher training providers. The department also expects stakeholder organisations
and exam boards to play an important role in supporting the teaching workforce to
deliver the BSL GCSE.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
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