Multi-modal approach

Just graduating after completing her two-year accelerated degree in Primary Education Studies, Hayley was first introduced to Makaton at Two Rivers, an SEN school in Tamworth.

Wanting to give young people an effective way to communicate and express themselves, she did some research and found Makaton. “It is a multi-modal approach, not just for those without a voice,” said Hayley, who went on to achieve her tutor licence to train teachers, staff, students, family members, nursing staff and social workers at the school.

“It was really successful and is becoming increasingly important in mainstream schools and beyond to understand special educational needs. I found students leaving sixth form couldn’t get a job because they couldn’t communicate.”

Hayley has been working towards her PGCE as part of the SCITT scheme at Arthur Terry School in Sutton Coldfield. But she will continue to promote the benefits of Makaton training and hopes to come back to University College Birmingham to deliver more sessions in the future.

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