Signalong Essential Vocabulary Workshop

This workshop is designed to introduce signing with an emphasis on the practical application of signing.

What is Signalong?

Signalong is a 'key word' sign-supported system used alongside speech. It can be introduced at any age to develop language skills where there are barriers.

The workshop will be led by one of our qualified trainers -

• Jennie Chapman - Jennie has a wealth of knowledge having worked within Autism Unlimited for 20 years and has been a Signalong tutor for 3 years. Her passion for Signalong comes from her personal experience using Signalong to support her autistic son's communication.
• Sarah Newbery - Sarah has worked within the charity for 17 years in both our care and education setting. She has a dedication to sharing Signalong with others after seeing first hand the benefits of using Signalong with the young people she has supported.

Workshop information:

Time: 9:30am to 2:30pm

Location: Portfield School, Parley Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6BP.

Parking: Parking is available on site. Upon arrival at the main gate, please use the keypad to contact School Reception and state your name and that you are attending the workshop. Once the gate has been opened, you may park in any available space. Please then proceed to the main School Reception to sign in.

To help ensure the safety of our students, you will be asked to present valid photo ID at reception.

What to bring

Refreshments, including tea, coffee and biscuits, will be provided throughout the day. Please bring a packed lunch with you.

This is a relaxed workshop so please dress in clothes you are comfortable in.

This workshop covers;

• Brief history, philosophy and methodology of Signalong.
• Understand the purpose of sign supported communication.
• Learn to sign over 100 'words'.
• Classroom signing practice.
• Activities to put vocabulary into context.

You will also take home our Autism Unlimited Essential Vocabulary Manual which contains skills pages and all the signs learnt during the workshop.

PLEASE NOTE: This workshop is open to parents and carers only. Your child(ren) will be not be admitted into the workshop so you will need to make alternative childcare arrangements to cover the workshop duration. If you arrive with your child you will be turned away from the workshop.

If you have any questions before the course, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

We look forward to seeing you on the day.