Sorenson Interpreter Academy UK

Brand new training programmes for trainee and experienced interpreters now available

Sorenson Interpreter Academy UK

The need for qualified sign language interpreters consistently exceeds the supply – one of the primary reasons Sorenson invests heavily in training and upskilling interpreters regardless of whether they work with us. 

Our training opportunities are numerous and suited to trainee interpreters, those newer to the profession and experienced interpreters looking to advance their skills and knowledge.

Synergy UK Training – Online Webinar Series

Synergy UK provides trainee interpreters with free professional, rich and diverse learning opportunities through participation in small group skills sessions, to discuss the work of interpreting prior to qualification. We provide an holistic approach for interpreting students through access to our pool of resources to prepare them for community, educational, VRS and VRI settings.

What to expect:

  • Webinars for upper-level students on the interpreting process and linguistic features of signed and spoken languages
  • A greater sense of community through program connections
  • Support for infusing the VRS specialty into the course of study
  • Virtual gatherings and panel discussions for participating students from different programs

Acorn UK training – Self Paced Professional Development Programme

Acorn is a self-directed training pathway designed specifically for newly qualified interpreters who are stepping from the structured environment of interpreter education into the realities of professional practice.

The programme provides a supportive framework for building resilience, reinforcing essential skills, and fostering confidence during the early stages of a career in interpreting.

What to expect:

  • eLearning to strengthen foundational knowledge

  • A video library featuring real-world scenarios and reflective learning

  • Interpreting skills-focused webinars

  • Guidance on professional ethics and business development

  • Group mentoring sessions to share experiences and insights

  • Deliberate Practice Labs for targeted skill development

  • Opportunities to connect with Synergy participants and experienced VRS interpreters through live webinars

With Acorn, interpreters are encouraged to grow independently while remaining connected to a professional community that values continued learning and development.

Koru UK Training – Enhanced VRS Programme 

Koru is an accelerated, on-the-job training programme for interpreters that are interested in transitioning to VRS/VRI work. This includes those with a minimum of two and a half years post-qualification experience who are developing essential interpreting skills in preparation for VRS. 

Applications for Koru for VRS are currently welcomed from all areas of the UK. 

What to Expect: 

  • Comprehensive New Hire Training and induction to Sorenson 

  • 10 weeks of VRS interpreter training, including skill-building and deliberate practice 

  • Bilingual and bicultural training team 

  • Ongoing support from a Deaf mentor and lead interpreters 

  • Work as a staff interpreter while benefiting from specialised training 

  • 1:1 mentoring 

  • Small group webinars 

  • Deliberate Practice Labs 

  • Focused VRS skill development 

  • Peer observations, and more 

Learn with us

We have an extensive offering of training events and development programmes for community and VRS interpreters. If you would like to join our mailing list to be notified of all upcoming opportunities, please complete the form below.

If you would like more information about our training, please do get in touch with the team at [email protected]