We are delighted to be entering the third year of our STEP-wide Makaton Initiative, continuing our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every child can communicate, participate and thrive.

Makaton is a unique communication programme that combines speech, signs and symbols to support understanding and expression. By using simple signs alongside spoken language, Makaton helps to break down communication barriers and enables more people to engage confidently in everyday interactions.

At Park Academy, we believe that every child has the right to be heard, understood and included. Makaton is one of the many ways we empower pupils who may need additional support with communication, while also encouraging all members of our school community to develop greater empathy, understanding and respect for others.

The initiative has become an important part of school life, with pupils and staff regularly learning and practising signs together. Through assemblies, classroom activities and daily interactions, we continue to build a culture where communication is accessible to everyone.

This term, our Makaton focus is Family. Throughout the term, pupils will be learning a range of family-related signs and exploring the many different people who make up our families and support networks. During assemblies, we will be sharing and practising these signs together, helping to develop confidence and participation across the school.

We are incredibly proud of how enthusiastically our pupils embrace Makaton and the positive impact it has on our inclusive school community. By learning to communicate in different ways, our children are developing valuable life skills and demonstrating our shared belief that everyone matters and everyone belongs.

Together, we are creating a school where every voice can be heard and every child can take part.