Training

The best way to learn Makaton is to go on a workshop. This will enable you to learn alongside others; you will get feedback on your signing skills, and you will be able to practise with others who are learning.

There are over 1,000 licensed Makaton Tutors and Trainers across the UK, providing a wide range of workshops to meet different needs (see below). In all of them, you will gain knowledge of Makaton, learn signs and symbols up to an appropriate level, and then be able to use Makaton at work or at home. For further information, call our Training team on 01276 606777.

Go symbol Scheduled workshops & courses
A list of some of the workshops and courses that are currently available.

Go symbol Find a Makaton Tutor
Contact your local Makaton Tutor.

Go symbol Makaton training for professionals
Makaton training for professionals is for those who need to use Makaton in their work, as well as for others who wish a more in-depth training.

Go symbol Makaton training for parents and carers
Makaton training for parents and carers is for family members, carers and workers who need to use Makaton at home and in their work.

Go symbol Taster sessions
Taster sessions are for people who are interested either in finding out about Makaton or with a view to attending a Beginners' or Foundation Workshop at a later date.

Go symbol Makaton signing for babies
Makaton signing for babies is for parents, family members, carers or members of professional teams who would like to sign with babies and children in their care.

Go symbol The use of Makaton in protection and abuse
Designed to support professionals and carers of children and adults with severe communication and learning disabilities, this workshop builds on and expands existing knowledge of signing and symbols.

How can I be sure of the standard of the training I receive?

The Makaton Charity has a network of registered and licensed Makaton Tutors, both in the UK and overseas, who are trained to provide Makaton workshops.

Makaton Tutors must meet strict criteria set by The Makaton Charity, including attending annual Study Days. Also, as part of your training, you should receive your own Study Pack including:

  • Makaton Symbols and Signs
  • an official Participant’s Manual and
  • a Certificate of Attendance

How much does the training cost?

In order to help keep the cost of essential Makaton training as low as possible, The Makaton Charity recommends the levels of fees that Tutors can charge, but sometimes Tutors have to add on the cost of room hire, travel, Pocket Books of Symbols and Signs and other necessary expenses.

Training for work

The Beginners' and Follow-up workshops are accredited through the Open College Network (OCN). If you need to attend accredited training, contact your local college or the Makaton Training Team.