Level 2 Supporting Communication: Mastering Makaton to Support Inclusive Learning 606010 [UK Time Zone]

Lets learn some Makaton! Empowering you to create more inclusive, supportive learning environments for all students.

Designed specifically for Stagecoach teachers, this practical session will develop your understanding of Makaton and expand your vocabulary to use in everyday teaching scenarios. You’ll explore how to effectively integrate Makaton into your performing arts lessons to aid understanding, reduce anxiety, and promote confident participation among students with communication needs.

We’ll cover signs and symbols relevant to the Stagecoach setting, provide guidance on pacing and clarity, and discuss best practices for reinforcing key vocabulary through repetition and routine. You’ll also learn how to adapt your delivery using visual cues and gestures, ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and included.

Whether you're working with students who have specific communication needs or simply want to enhance your inclusive teaching practice, this session will give you the tools to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

Training facilitated by: Sam Stephen

Sam grew up in Aberdeen, Scotland, and trained in classical ballet, contemporary dance, and musical theatre, with a performing career that took him across the world. Parallel to performing, Sam has extensive experience as a teacher, community artist, working in both the public and private sectors.

A pivotal moment in Sam's career was in 2017 when he discovered Makaton while working at additional needs schools. Witnessing the profound impact of this communication programme inspired Sam to become a licensed Makaton Tutor. Makaton is now at the heart of everything he does. As an Ambassador for The Makaton Charity, Sam shares this powerful communication tools with audiences across healthcare, education, and creative arts. Whether delivering workshops, creating resources, or advocating for inclusive practices, Sam is passionate about empowering others to connect through communication. Most recently he was part of the creative team, developing a children's book, ‘Little Robin, Red Vest’, into a theatre adaptation, with Makaton present throughout.

A recent exciting venture is, MakaTots, a new sister-company which brings Makaton to early years settings. MakaTots offers a playful, musical, and inclusive environment where children aged 0-5 and their families can explore communication and creativity together. From singing and storytelling to sensory play, every session nurtures understanding and joy. MakaTots has also become a supportive community for parents and caregivers, providing a space to learn and grow together. Sam was grateful to open the very first-franchise of MakaTots in early 2025.

Sam's mission is simple: to inspire others to embrace communication and creativity with courage and authenticity.

Quote: “I’ve always been proud of my desire to be curious. This inherent curiosity has led me around the world into communities and places so far removed from the simple surroundings of my childhood in the northeast of Scotland. These adventures have given me the privilege of hearing countless stories and gaining different perspectives on life. They’ve taught me that while we are wildly different in our imperfections, we’re also deeply connected in our humanity.”

Important Advisory on Course Levels

Please note: The term "level" as used in our teacher training courses refers solely to Stagecoach's internal framework of professional development. It is designed to indicate progression within our own three-tier training structure and should not be interpreted as representing a formal qualification level. These internal levels are not equivalent to primary qualifications and do not correspond to any nationally recognised attainment levels as defined by Ofqual or any other awarding body. By proceeding with your booking, you acknowledge that you understand and accept this distinction.