Training
In-person workshops delivered across Scotland. Online training wherever you are in the country.
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a communication programme that uses speech, signs, and symbols. Signs are used alongside speech, in spoken word order, so a person hears the word and sees it at the same time, reinforcing meaning and helping to convey a clear message. Building upon this, Makaton symbols provide a pictographic image or concept, for anyone who cannot, or would rather not, sign.
Who is Makaton for?
Makaton was originally designed for people with learning or communication difficulties, but increasingly it is used by more and more people, including families, schools, nurseries, care settings, and health services. Makaton is for everyone.
How is the training delivered?
Makaton Levels 1 to 4 teach the Makaton Core Vocabulary, common words that have been specially selected that Makaton users are likely to need every day. The early stages cover more crucial and immediate words that users are likely to need to fulfil basic functions. The later stages further explore more complex concepts like time and emotions. The four levels work through the different stages of the Makaton Core Vocabulary. Everybody begins with Level 1 and then works up.
Beyond the Core Vocabulary sits the Resource Vocabulary, thousands more signs and symbols grouped by topic. Setting specific workshops explore these in more detail.Makaton Membership (opens in a new tab)allows individuals or organisations to access theMakaton Library (opens in a new tab)and explore the full suite of resources.
The Makaton Charity explains the full pathway here (opens in a new tab).
Taster session
Ninety minutes to two hours, in person only. A first look at Makaton with enough signs to take home and start using that evening. Good for a staff meeting, a parent group, or anyone who wants to know what they are committing to before they book a level.
£20 per person. In person only.
Levels 1 to 4
The Core Vocabulary pathway. Each level builds on the one before, beginning with Level 1 and culminating in Level 4. Training is usually delivered in a six hour day, or split into two sessions of three hours each.
Level 1
Where everyone starts. An introduction to Makaton and the first stages of the Core Vocabulary's signs and symbols. Each participant receives a manual containing the symbols and line drawings of every sign taught.
What The Makaton Charity says about Level 1 (opens in a new tab)
Level 2
Includes revision of Level 1 signs, and covers the next stages of the Core Vocabulary along with some additional concepts. Level 2 also explores the theory of Makaton in more detail.
What The Makaton Charity says about Level 2 (opens in a new tab)
Level 3
Revision of Levels 1 & 2, followed by the next stages of the Core Vocabulary. We will begin to start exploring more abstract ideas, like time and feelings.
What The Makaton Charity says about Level 3 (opens in a new tab)
Level 4
Completes the Core Vocabulary pathway, and moves you towards more skilful translation practices and proficiency.
What The Makaton Charity says about Level 4 (opens in a new tab)
£90 per person for Levels 1 to 4. Group booking discounts are available on request.
Makaton for Early Years Settings
Designed for any professional early years setting including nurseries, playgroups, and childminders. Practical signs and symbols that can help reinforce key messages for everyday routines and activities such as snack time, story time, tidying up, and going outside. The aim is to create a consistent signing environment where every child sees the same signs from every adult, not one member of staff signing on their own.
If you are heading for Makaton Friendly (opens in a new tab) status, I can point you in the right direction.
£90 per person. In person.
Makaton for Dentistry
For dental teams. A check-up can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing experience if communication barriers mean the patient does not understand or know what is coming next. For a lot of patients with communication or learning difficulties, walking into a clinic with visual symbols and Makaton trained professionals can make all the difference. The Makaton for Dentistry workshop will teach you the signs and symbols you need to make your dental practice an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.
Suitable for the whole team, including reception. Inclusive communication from the moment patients walk through the door.
£90 per person. In person.