Episode 1

Rose Ayling-Ellis arrives at Hughenden Gardens Retirement Village on a bold and heartfelt mission – to teach British Sign Language (BSL) to a group of retirees in just six weeks. Her goal is to explore whether BSL can enhance their quality of life, deepen connections and combat the isolation that often comes with hearing loss.

The students – some well into their nineties – embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, despite the hurdles of learning a new language at a later stage of life. To support their journey, Rose enlists the help of her friend, charismatic teacher Marios Costi. As the lessons progress, the group begin to share their life stories in an entirely new way.

For 92-year-old Eric, the experience extends beyond the classroom as he starts teaching his great-grandchildren some signs. His daughter observes that the classes are ‘taking ten years off him’. Meanwhile, Sue, who is losing her sight, expresses frustration with the word 'disabled', struggling with being seen as different. Rose hopes to shift perspectives, so she takes the group to one of her favourite places – the Jewish Deaf Association in London. Here, the residents witness a vibrant, thriving deaf community that challenges their preconceptions. Sue has a powerful breakthrough when she meets Michael, a deafblind man whose radiant positivity changes her outlook on life.

As the group immerse themselves in the world of BSL, they embark on a journey that is not just about learning a language but about discovering new ways to connect, communicate and embrace life with renewed confidence and joy.

The episode’s finale is a signing karaoke night in celebration of the residents’ progress. Keith wows the room, Eric serenades June with a love song, and Pam gets the whole room sign-singing along!