Milestones in the history of Makaton

2007	The MVDP is re-established as The Makaton Charity, a charitable company limited by guarantee.
2004	"Makaton" is added to the Oxford English dictionary.
2003	Makaton CBeebies TV programme "The Farm", part of the "Something Special" series, receives the Royal Television Society Award for Early Years.
2001	25th anniversary of the first Makaton workshop. Makaton Road Safety book receives Prince Michael International Road Safety Commendation Certificate.
2000	The Makaton Dental Book receives the British Dental Award 2000 for Community Initiatives (collaboration between Homefirst Community Trust Speech and Language Therapy Department and Dental Department and the MVDP).
1999	Makaton used in over 40 countries around the world.
1998	MVDP awarded a Business Enterprise Award for innovation and business acumen.
1997	First Makaton distance learning pack published.
1996	Makaton Core Vocabulary updated, enlarged and revised. First Makaton computer databases produced. Makaton website set up. Margaret Walker awarded MBE for services to Health Care.
1992	The MVDP receives the Jerwood Award for significant contribution to special education.
1985	Makaton symbols made available, enabling multi-modal use of signs and symbols.
1983	The MVDP becomes a registered charitable trust.
1981	The Makaton language programme begins to be used overseas.
1980	Work started on Makaton Resource Vocabulary.
1978	First Makaton tutor training course.
1976	Original research repeated in a community-based environment, resulting in 1976 version of Makaton Core Vocabulary. The first Makaton training workshop was held establishing the Makaton language programme and use of signing. The Makaton Vocabulary Development Project (MVDP) established as a non-profit organisation. Makaton symbols working party founded.
1972/ 1973	Original research (by Margaret Walker) resulting in the design of the Makaton Core Vocabulary, based on functional need.