What Qualification/level is this course?
This is a beginners course for parents, carers and those interested in learning Makaton. You will learn signs and symbols from the Makaton Vocabulary and learn how to use this to support people with communication difficulties. A Makaton certificate is awarded for those completing the course. No previous experience of Makaton is required.

Who is the course for?
This course is suitable for staff and other professionals working with adults and children with communication difficulties.

What can I expect to learn?
Lectures cover research into sign and symbol use symbol design themes, the use and purpose of Makaton and an overview of alternative systems of communication. You will learn the signs and symbols for Stages 1-4 and Additional Core Vocabulary. You will also learn about visual communication and its importance in communicating effectively when using Makaton.

How will I learn?
Your tutor will use a number of different teaching methods to develop your skills. These will include a wide range of authentic materials, individual study, working in pairs/group activities and will include the use of video/audio. You will also have the opportunity to use online learning technologies to develop your skills.

How will I know how well I am doing?
Your tutor will give you feedback on classroom activities and tasks undertaken. Individual learning outcomes will be agreed at the beginning of the course, taking into account the course aims and your aspirations. These will be reviewed with you at regular intervals and you will be encouraged to reflect on your own learning and record your feedback in your Individual Learning Plan.

Will I have to do any work at home?
Participants will be expected to practice accurate and confident signing finger spelling and symbol use between sessions.

What will I need to provide?
To participate in this course, you will need to purchase the worolshop manuals. Yourt tutor will discuss this matter wilth you and how they can be purchased. A notebook and writting/drawing equipment will be useful. If this course is online, to participate you will need a laptop, tablet or PC with webcam a microphone, internet connection with Google Chrome browser, an email address and be able to access websites.

Are there any other costs?
No .All costs are included in the fee.

What can I do next?
Following successful completion of the Foundation course, participants can progress to the Enhancement (Level 2) course. Your tutor will be pleased to discuss other courses that might assist your progression in this subject. For information on ACL courses please see http://www.aclessex.com/ The National Careers Service provides information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work. The service offers confidential and impartial advice and is supported by qualified careers advisers. To make an appointment please call 0800 100 900 (calls are free from landlines and most mobile numbers) or visit their website https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Further information
For all enquiries regarding this course please contact 0345 603 7635.