Primary Teaching students at the University of Chichester are advocating for more communication-friendly classrooms after taking part in Makaton trainings.
The final-year undergraduate Primary Teaching students received Makaton training from local tutor Laura Gilbert, alongside specialist support from staff at Fordwater Special School and Chichester Nursery School. Makaton is a communication programme that uses signs and symbols to support spoken language.
The training was part of the Professional Enrichment Module, designed to broaden student teachers’ understanding of innovative educational approaches that can improve outcomes and aspirations for children. This year, students explored specialist pathways including Beach School, Makaton, Performing Arts, Play Beyond the Early Years, Relational and Restorative Practice, International Partnerships, and Food and Nutrition.
Lianna Wilding and Bex Drummond, who co-ordinate the module, said: “Providing opportunities for student teachers to engage with innovative, research-informed practice helps ensure they enter the profession equipped with a broad repertoire of strategies to support pupils and be ambitious for their outcomes.”
Fordwater Special School and Chichester Nursery School, both recognised for their expertise in communication and inclusion, supported students’ understanding of Makaton through guest lectures, podcasts, and school-based learning.
Lexi Hurt, student teacher on the module, said: “This module was eye-opening to the world of multi-modal communication, immersing myself and my peers in not only Makaton, but ways to mould our classrooms to be communication-friendly. The module enhanced my knowledge from my independent project, which focussed on song-based transitions, inspiring me to incorporate Makaton signs into transitional songs to improve their effectiveness. The skilled and knowledgeable tutors and guest speakers helped make this module my favourite and most relevant on the course.”
Students have already begun applying their learning within local schools, helping to raise awareness of inclusive communication approaches and ensuring more children can access learning.
The University of Chichester has a proud 185-year tradition of teacher training and continues to encourage future teachers to champion a research-led approach in their careers.
To find out more about teaching programmes at the University of Chichester, visit: https://www.chi.ac.uk/teaching/