Makaton
Makaton training introduces a structured communication programme that uses speech, signs and symbols to support understanding and expression for children and young people with communication difficulties. Our training helps staff and families learn practical signs and symbols they can use in everyday situations, building a shared way of communicating across home, school and the wider community. Further details of the different Makaton training options we offer are available here.
Makaton Taster 'Intro' Session
Course overview
This informal Taster Session introduces the Makaton Language Programme and gives a practical starting point for using signs and symbols to support children and young people’s understanding and expression. It offers a brief overview of learning and communication difficulties and how Makaton can be used within activity, education and community settings.
Who is the course for?
This session is suitable for anyone working or living with children, teenagers or young adults who have communication needs, including staff in early years, schools, colleges, youth and community settings, as well as parents and carers. No previous experience of Makaton is required.
Learning aims
• To gain a basic understanding of what Makaton is and how it supports language and communication for children and young people.
• To learn around 40 functional signs and symbols, including a core list of everyday vocabulary and 12 words tailored to your setting or chosen theme (e.g. Early Years, secondary, college, seasonal topics, café/restaurant).
• To build confidence to begin using Makaton signs and symbols in everyday routines and activities with children and young people.
Course format
• 90 minutes of interactive, online learning.
• Topic‑based content, tailored to your setting where possible.
• Practical demonstration and guided practice of signs and symbols, with opportunities to join in and ask questions.
• Reasonable adjustments can be made to support individual access needs if advised in advance.
Pricing
£25 per person.
Larger group bookings, please contact us for a tailored quote for your setting.
Makaton Level 1
Course overview
Level 1 is the first accredited workshop on the Makaton pathway and provides a more in‑depth, practical introduction to the Makaton Communication Programme. It focuses on using Makaton in everyday situations to support the communication skills of children, teenagers and young adults.
Who is the course for?
Level 1 is recommended for parents, carers and professionals who need to use Makaton regularly at home, in early years, school, college, youth or care settings, or in health and social care services. There are no formal entry requirements.
Learning aims
• To develop a clearer understanding of learning and communication difficulties and how Makaton can help children and young people.
• To learn and practise a core vocabulary of signs and symbols linked to immediate needs, home, familiar people, food, events, activities and everyday objects, relevant across childhood and adolescence.
• To gain practical strategies, hints and tips for introducing and embedding signs and symbols into daily routines to maximise communication for children and young people.
Course format
• Delivered as a full‑day workshop (e.g. 9.00–15.00) online.
• Combination of tutor input, video examples, discussion and practical signing activities.
• Participants receive a manual containing the symbols and signs taught during the workshop, plus a certificate of attendance (required for progression to higher Makaton levels).
Pricing
£95 per person for online training.
For larger bookings, or enquiries for face-to-face training, please get in touch.
Additional Makaton training options (Levels 2–4)
Level 2
Level 2 builds on Level 1 and further develops skills in using signs and symbols in everyday situations with children, teenagers and young adults. It introduces additional vocabulary and gives more time to practise integrating Makaton into real‑life routines at home, school, college and in the community.
Course format
• A full‑day workshop (e.g. 9.00–15.00) online.
Pricing
• £95 per person for online training.
For larger bookings, or enquiries for face-to-face training, please get in touch.
Level 3
Level 3 focuses on extending your Makaton vocabulary and deepening your understanding of how to adapt signing and symbol use for individuals with more complex communication needs. It includes more detailed work on assessment, planning and tailoring Makaton to different ages, settings and learning profiles.
Course format
• A full‑day workshop (e.g. 9.00–15.00) online.
Pricing
• £95 per person for online training.
For larger bookings, or enquiries for face-to-face training, please get in touch.
Level 4
Level 4 is an advanced workshop for those who are using Makaton regularly and wish to consolidate a larger vocabulary and refine their practice. It explores more sophisticated symbol use, modelling across environments and supporting wider teams to maintain consistent, high‑quality Makaton input.
Course format
• A full‑day workshop (e.g. 9.00–15.00) online.
Pricing
• £95 per person for online training.
For larger bookings, or enquiries for face-to-face training, please get in touch.
Training Hub
Our Training Hub provides flexible options for on-demand and live training to meet your specific SALT needs
How we can help
Support for a child or young person
Individual support services for a specific child or young person.
Whole Setting Support
Tailored and multi-service packages to meet support requirements and skills gaps.
On-demand and live training
On demand and live training to embed Speech and Language Therapy capabilities.
Resources, tools and useful information
Helpful information, tips, and advice on different areas of Speech and Language Therapy.