Haselbury Campus
14th June 2024
No longer lost in translation
Have you ever spoken to someone and they have not been able to understand you?
Many years ago, I travelled to a country that used different letters of the alphabet.
I felt very lost because I could not read any signs or understand the people. Then I saw some symbols which told me what to do next and where to go. What a relief!
Makaton is a language programme. It uses speech, signs and symbols to help people understand each other.
This alternative way of communicating is important to our learners. It helps to strengthen the relationships between peers. Through gestures and imagery, an entire conversation could be had.
Most Makaton signs are easy to understand and sign. I am sure that you have used some without even knowing it!
To show you how easy it is to use Makaton, three signs our learners often use in school are help, please and friend. Three signs our learners use at home are eat, book and sleep.
The Makaton Charity (https://makaton.org/) has many free resources you can use at home or at work. Have a look to see which signs you might already know or use in the future.
Learners have settled well into their new classes, new year groups and, for our year 7s, new school. We're all raring to go after the half term break!
Soon, all school related communication will go through School Gateway.
Using the School Gateway app means you’ll receive letters and notifications straight away, and no more lost messages as they will all be in one place.
The app is free to download and available for both Apple and Android devices.
For full details and instructions on how to log in, please visit the
School Gateway page on our website.
If you have any issues or questions, please contact the office on
020 8807 2656 or email office@westleaschool.co.uk
