​​​Training & Courses

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What types of Makaton courses do you provide?

I offer a range of courses, including Makaton Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4, a selection of brand-new Frontline Workshops as well as bespoke training for families and professionals.

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How long does a Makaton training session last?

Session lengths vary, but most introductory workshops last between 90 minutes to 2 hours, while full courses take place over one full day or two half days.

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Where are your Makaton public classes held?

I offer both in-person and online Makaton training sessions. The in-person sessions take place in Weston super Mare at Elementa Support Services, while online sessions are available to learners across the UK.

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I completed training quite a few years ago, what do I need to do? Is there a time limit before you have to retrain?

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Makaton used to have training for parents and professionals separately, here is the ‘old’ terminology and the new workshop names that have replaced them.

Beginners 1 (yellow certificate) is equivalent to new Level 1

Beginners 2 (yellow certificate) is equivalent to the new Level 2

Follow Up workshop (light blue certificate) is equivalent to a Level 4

Foundation workshop (dark green certificate) is equivalent to a Level 2

Enhancement workshop (red certificate) is equivalent to a level 4

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It is recommended that if you completed any training more than 10 years ago, that you redo the training. Everyone begins at Level 1.

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Do I have to start at Level 1? Can I not just sign straight up to a Level 2?

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The Level training is designed to follow on from one another and build on things learnt in previous levels, for that reason, everyone has to start their Makaton journey by completing Level 1.

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Can parents and carers learn Makaton?

Absolutely! Makaton is an excellent tool for parents and carers to communicate with their children, helping to ease frustration. My courses are designed to help families learn practical signs and symbols they can use every day.

 

Do you provide Makaton training for schools and nurseries?

Yes! I offer specialist training for schools, nurseries, and childcare providers to help educators incorporate Makaton into their daily routines and improve inclusive communication.

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Do you offer Makaton training for professionals?

Yes! I provide tailored Makaton training for teachers, healthcare workers, carers, and organisations to help them communicate effectively with individuals using Makaton, helping to increase accessibility and inclusion within your services.

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Booking & Availability

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How do I book a Makaton course?

You can find a course and book HERE, email me, or call to arrange a session.

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Can I book a private Makaton session?

Yes! I offer private and small group sessions tailored to individual needs. Contact me to discuss availability and pricing. For private bookings I generally book 3 - 4 months in advance, however please always enquire I could have a space to suit your availability. I have weekdays, weekday evenings and weekend availability to deliver your training. 

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Do you offer corporate training for businesses?

Yes, I provide corporate Makaton training for businesses looking to improve communication with employees or customers who use Makaton. Bookings are particularly popular with corporate clients for ‘Learning at Work Week.’

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Are there any prerequisites for attending a Makaton course?

No prior experience is required for Level 1 Makaton training. However, for higher-level courses, you must have completed the previous level.

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Can I get a certificate after completing a Makaton course?

Yes! Upon completion of a Makaton training course, you will receive an official Makaton Certificate of Attendance, which is recognised across the UK. You also receive a comprehensive training manual during training at each Level.

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Pricing & Payment

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How much do Makaton courses cost?

Course prices vary depending on the level and format. Please visit my website or contact me for a personalised quote based on your training needs.

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Do you offer group discounts?
Yes! Discounts are available for schools, organisations, and groups booking multiple sessions. Contact me for details.

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What payment methods do you accept?
I accept bank transfers and card payments through STRIPE for all training sessions and courses.

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What are your terms and conditions?

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Booking terms and conditions are sent out alongside invoices, please read these carefully, by sending payment you are agreeing to the booking terms and conditions. If you are purchasing a place on a public workshop please note you will be asked to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking your place and sending payment, by sending payment you are agreeing to the booking terms and conditions.

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Do you issue refunds?

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For group bookings, please see the booking terms and conditions PDF. For public bookings - I understand from time to time people may change their mind, get ill or generally things crop up. However, I do not generally issue refunds, as a small independent business it can significantly affect income when things change at short notice. Courses may be full, resources ordered, venues booked and I may have turned down other paying participants and may not be able to resell the place at short notice. Offering free places on future courses also reduces potential income. If you are concerned please contact me to discuss terms and conditions at the time of booking. I will work with you in a responsible and ethical way but I may not be able to find a solution at really short notice.

 

Additional Information

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What makes you qualified to teach Makaton?

I am a Licensed Makaton Tutor and trained with The Makaton Charity, I have extensive experience teaching Makaton to individuals, families, and professionals. I am passionate about making communication accessible for all. I have over 25 years experience in supporting Makaton users of all ages across many settings.

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How can I stay updated with your latest courses and events?

Follow me on Facebook  https://www.instagram.com/alipenningtonmakatontraining Ali Pennington | LinkedIn