The Core Makaton training journey is staged and cumulative, following the Core Vocabulary which covers the signs and symbols for increasingly wide-ranging and complex concepts in progressive stages, from 1-8. This diagram shows the type of vocabulary covered in each Level:
The workshop for each Level teaches 2 stages of the Core Vocabulary along with background information and techniques to deepen learners' understanding and skills with each workshop.
Each Level builds on what was taught in previous workshops and must be completed in turn.
Even people who already use Makaton, any other alternative communication systems or sign language need to start their Makaton journey at Level 1 to ensure they learn the correct signs and symbols for all of the Core Vocabulary along with background information and training on how best to use it all to support communication.
Learners applying to attend workshops for Level 2 or above should be able to show evidence that they have completed the previous workshop first, and they will be expected to know the content and symbols and signs that were taught.
Anyone applying to become a Makaton Tutor needs to have completed all four workshops from Level 1 - Level 4 in the past 5 years, and Levels 1 & 2 are required for Safeguarding workshops and training to become a MakaTots or Makaton For... Trainer.
Finding a Level 1 Workshop
Click here to look at training advertised by freelance Tutors on the Makaton website.
If nothing comes up in your local area you can set the Event type to Online and enter a central town with the max. 600 miles search radius to see workshops offered online by Tutors all over the UK.
For private group training, take a look at our Workplace Training information.