A PROUD primary school near Rugby has become the first in Warwickshire to be officially recognised for embracing a special form of sign language.
Knightlow C of E Primary School has achieved Makaton Friendly status – a significant milestone for the whole school community.
Makaton is a UK-based language programme using British Sign Language signs, symbols, and speech to aid communication for people with learning or communication difficulties, often used by people with autism or Down syndrome.
The Makaton Charity grants Makaton Friendly status to schools, health centres, heritage sites and eateries to create environments where everyone feels valued, supported, and able to connect meaningfully with others.
To achieve the status, Knightlow staff and pupils have worked together over the past two years to embed Makaton signs and symbols into everyday school life, helping all children to communicate effectively, make choices and express themselves with confidence.
Each class has two dedicated Makaton Ambassadors who attend weekly meetings to learn new signs, including the popular Sign of the Week, which they model in class and share with families through the school newsletter.
The much-loved Makaton Choir, open to pupils and staff, adds an extra layer of fun, offering opportunities to rehearse and perform at school events.
A school spokesperson said: “Knightlow C of E Primary is delighted to be recognised as a Makaton Friendly School and looks forward to continuing to work with local schools and the wider community to promote the power of inclusive communication.”
