Amanda Smith

Amanda Smith is an Associate Professor and Programme Lead for British Sign Language (BSL) and Deaf Studies at York St John University. She has taught BSL for 20 years, specializing in integrating deaf lived experience into education. Her roles include teaching BSL modules, mentoring colleagues for Higher Education Academy (HEA) fellowships, and serving as an external examiner for institutions in Ireland and the UK. She holds a Senior Fellowship of the HEA (SFHEA) and a range of BSL qualifications up to Level 6.

Education and Qualifications: Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (York St John), Postgraduate Diploma in Health Practice (Northumbria), Level 6 BSL (Signature), and CMI Leadership and Management (Level 5).

Research and Interests: Focused on BSL pedagogy, accessibility in education, and deaf cultural awareness. She advocates for equal access for d/Deaf communities and collaborates with organizations to enhance deaf awareness training. Her work includes developing video resources for language learning and promoting inclusive university practices.

Awards: Recognized nationally and locally for teaching excellence, including National Teacher of the Year (2011) and multiple student-nominated awards. Her contributions were acknowledged with Course Team of the Year (2022) for BSL and Deaf Studies.

Professional Activities: External examiner for TRALEE Institute of Technology (Ireland), Salford University, and iBSL certifications. Active in Signature (BSL awarding body) and involved in HEA fellowship assessments. She also supports the student-led Sign Language Society in advancing BSL visibility.