Dutch Sign Language AB1

This course introduces you to Dutch Sign Language (NGT) and Deaf culture in an interactive way. You will learn step by step to have simple conversations and work towards language level A1.

Level

0 – A2 (Beginner)

Location

Class Sessions

Class format

General

Class hours

2 hours

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About the course Dutch Sign Language AB1

Would you like to communicate more easily with deaf sign language users? This course is a great way to get acquainted with Dutch Sign Language and Deaf culture, regardless of your background or goals. The course opens doors to new communication possibilities and a better understanding of the Deaf community.

In 12 lessons of Dutch Sign Language:

  • understand familiar gestures and basic phrases;
  • use simple expressions and sentences to describe your living environment and the people you know;
  • you engage in simple interactions;
  • you can ask and answer simple questions about very familiar topics or immediate needs.

In the Dutch Sign Language AB1 course, you will work toward language level A1. After completing the course, you can continue with Dutch Sign Language (NGT) AB2.

Time investment

Sessions

This course consists of 12 meetings.

Lesson duration

Each class lasts 120 minutes.

Frequency

In this course, you will have classes once a week.

Self-study

You spend 2 to 4 hours per week on self-study.

Who is it for?

The course is suitable for a wide audience. You can participate if you are a beginner but also if you already have some experience. It is a great way to get acquainted with Dutch Sign Language and Deaf culture. Although the course does not prepare a specific exam, it can form the basis for further development in sign language. It provides a solid basic level of communication in NGT, allowing you to grow and expand your skills if you wish.

Business

With your colleagues

Looking for a course for your team or organization? Choose a hands-on customized course that is fully aligned with your organization’s goals.

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Schedule

View the schedule for the different start dates here:

31 August 2026
19:30 - 21:30
Nieuwegracht 94, Utrecht
Still 10 spots

Pricing

Course price: € 545,-
Excluding course materials

A language course is an investment in yourself. In your self-confidence. In your future in the Netherlands or beyond. That’s why we at Babel work with you to figure out the costs. You don’t always have to pay for a course yourself. Sometimes DUO helps out. Sometimes your employer does. And sometimes you get a discount. Find out what’s possible for you. Read more about the Funding for your course.

Method

Our teaching method combines a structured approach with hands-on working methods. The lessons are active, personal, varied and practical. There is always attention for your learning style, pace and level. Curious about how we design this course?

Approach

Through interactive lessons and practical exercises, you will learn to communicate step by step in Dutch Sign Language (NGT). During the meetings, NGT is the main language. In the first lesson there is still room to ask questions in spoken Dutch, but from the following lessons onwards, communication takes place as much as possible in sign language.

If you do not yet know a gesture, you may act it out. In this way, visual communication remains central and is interrupted as little as possible. If there are moments when you find it difficult to gesticulate or depict something, then drawing or written Dutch is a possibility to ask or make something clear.

Teaching Materials

The teaching material used during the course comes mainly from the Dutch Sign Language Center, from the NGT-AB1 course. In addition, the teacher will supplement the lessons with his or her own exercises and assignments. You do not need to purchase any material for this; you will receive this during the relevant lesson. You also get access to a digital learning environment, where you can watch homework videos and learn sign vocabulary, for example.

Teachers

You will be taught by an experienced teacher who will guide you step by step in learning NGT. You will receive targeted support and practice in a safe learning environment that focuses on visual communication and allows you to grow with confidence.

Certificate of Participation

You will receive a certificate of participation from us if you have actively participated in at least 80% of the meetings.

Do you have a question?

info@babel.nl 030 227 0008
Course details
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Frequently asked questions

Can I make up a missed Sign Language class?

Unfortunately, in group courses it is not possible to make up a missed lesson, because the lessons take place at fixed times for the whole group. Through the lesson materials, homework and lesson plan in MyBabel, you can work through the missed material independently, so that you can continue to follow the course well.

Can I pay for my Sign Language course in installments?

You pay the course fee in a single payment. You can do this upon registration via iDEAL, credit card, or by having your employer pay the invoice.

What are the advantages of a group language course?

A group language course offers the opportunity to learn and practice with others. You benefit from interactive lessons, learn from the questions and experiences of fellow students, and have plenty of opportunity to use the language actively. In addition, the group dynamic often provides extra motivation and a pleasant learning environment.

What is a virtual classroom?

A virtual classroom is a live online language course in which you take lessons together with a teacher and other students. You participate via Zoom or Teams, for example, and actively practice during the lesson. This combines the interaction of a group lesson with the convenience of online learning. Many students choose this form because of its flexibility.

What is NGT (Dutch Sign Language)?

NGT stands for Dutch Sign Language, the official sign language of the Dutch deaf community. It is a full-fledged language with its own grammar, vocabulary and language structure, which differs from spoken Dutch. NGT is used by deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people in a variety of situations, such as at home, at school, at work and in healthcare. By learning NGT, you increase the accessibility of communication and contribute to an inclusive society where everyone can participate.