Who we are

A word from our founder, Sarah J:

“Welcome to Sarah’s Signology Club - your inclusive space to learn, develop, and explore the world of British Sign Language (BSL).

I created this club with one important purpose: to help bridge the gap between the Deaf world and the hearing world. Communication should bring us together, and BSL is a powerful tool for connection, understanding, and inclusivity.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an established signer of any level, you’ll find a supportive and welcoming environment to grow your skills and confidence.

Our Aims:

To make learning BSL accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful
To create a supportive community for learners of all levels
To build confidence through interactive lessons and engaging activities
To encourage understanding and connection between Deaf and hearing communities

What You Can Discover With Us:

More than just BSL
Effective communication strategies
Deaf awareness and best practices
Deaf culture and its importance
Deaf history and influential figures
Supporting groups and charities making a difference

Meet the Team

Sarah J

CREATOR, FOUNDER AND CLUB DIRECTOR
Sarah is a Deaf professional with many years of experience in the NHS and a lifelong passion for communication. She began her BSL journey at the age of 16, and it has played a key role in shaping both her personal and professional path.
Her mission is to bring two communities together - the Deaf community and the Hearing community. She’s passionate about breaking down barriers, building understanding, and creating opportunities for genuine, meaningful communication between everyone.
Steve Rogers

TREASURER AND DEPUTY CLUB DIRECTOR
As well as being married to our Esteemed Founder, Steve is the numbers man for the club. Making sure that the membership fees and the costings are accurate is no mean feat - and with a day-job in Private Banking, he knows his onions pretty well!
Sarah Hopkinson

CLUB ADMINISTRATOR AND MEMBER SUPPORT
Sarah has known Sarah J for approximately 25 years (give or take a few!) and she encouraged her to start her sign language journey and now, she’s successfully completed her level 1 and level 2.
She’s used her sign language skills to assist deaf people in the hospital where she works as a neonatal nurse.
Sarah J asked for Sarah's support in establishing SSC as a community group and she supports in the administration of the club, helping members and developing the constitution etc. Sarah also assists with teaching groups when necessary.
Sam Cook

TECH SUPPORT AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Sam works in IT as a Software Support Technician and outside of work she’s a singer and DJ.
Being born with a visual impairment, Sam has always had a keen interest in disability awareness and inclusion. At school, she chose to spend her work experience at Shenstone Special School in Crayford.
She went on to raise awareness of blind and visual impairment issues through her radio shows: ‘Cane but Able’ on RTM Radio and Miskin Radio’s ‘One in 30’. The former was nominated for a Sony award for Best Community Radio show in 1991.
Sam went to college to learn BSL in the mid- ‘90’s and now signs for Rock Choir.
Hasan Kurtarici

EDUCATION LEAD
Hasan began his journey into BSL at the age of 11 after watching the Deaf kids at school sign and thought it was cool to speak without speaking, so he asked them to teach him the basics.
Upon leaving school he went to the University of Wolverhampton to achieve a BA(Hons) in Interpreting (BSL/Eng) and he worked in Interpreting and Communication Support for 12 years providing level 1 & 2 tuition as well as Deaf awareness to organisations.
Eventually, he changed careers and become a Psychotherapist providing support for both D/deaf and Hearing people.
In our group he’s earned the reputation of the 'serious clown', he will take the learning and development of BSL seriously whilst being silly!
Sharon Selby

COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Sharon started learning British Sign Language to support a family member on their learning journey back in 2021. After joining the Monday night socials back in 2023 and being welcomed so warmly, she said that she was inspired to continue with her own BSL journey.
Volunteering is Sharon’s way of giving back. She enjoys working quietly in the background supporting the team in whatever they need, helping to create that same welcoming experience for others as they begin their own signing journey.
Sharon says that she’s learning that BSL is about much more than just hands - it’s about expression and story. While she’s still letting her hands do the talking (and trying to convince them they can!), she’s loving the challenge.
Carol-Ann Hawkins

SAFEGUARDING AND PASTORAL CARE LEAD
Up until recently Carol was a Learner Support Assistant in a Primary School, working with SEND children. Over the years she has been volunteering in various roles in and around Basingstoke, most recently undertaking a position for helping individuals via a Crisis Line.
She has completed an introductory course to counselling which she hopes will also help in her role for Basingstoke and Deane Disability Forum (BDDF) for which she is a trustee.
Carol lives just outside Basingstoke with her partner and has 2 children. She is a member of the Basingstoke Rock Choir in which she sings and also signs to help promote inclusion within the choir. Music has always been a big part of her life from singing to dancing and learning to play instruments.
Carol is very keen to assist and help in any way she can using her own health issues and experiences as a foundation to understand others needs.