Makaton with Marie: Part 2 π₯³
In the second part of our series, Marie uses Makaton to tell us about five of her favourite animals. πΆπ°
Makaton plays a key role in supporting Marieβs communication skills and boosting her confidence when interacting with others.
Through our Gate service, we support neurodivergent young adults (16+) like Marie to build skills and confidence, explore new opportunities, and develop the tools they need to build a future that fits them. π
To learn more about our Gate service, click the link in our bio.
Weβre celebrating a glowing βreport cardβ from Education Scotland! π
Following a recent inspection, our Sensational Learning Centre has been rated Good in both key areas: Learning, Teaching and Assessment and Raising Attainment and Achievement.
π¬ βWeβre proud that inspectors recognised the teamβs unwavering commitment to wellbeing and positive mental health,β said Angela Evans, Head of Learning Services. βOur pupils thrive in an inclusive environment, supported by rich learning experiences.β
π Read more by clicking the link our bio and heading to `News & Views`
Are you an experienced Maths teacher with a passion for inclusive education? This could be the opportunity youβve been looking for! π
Weβre looking for a part-time Secondary Maths Teacher to join our team in our Sensational Learning Centre in Linlithgow. With a focus on wellbeing and communication, our school provides a safe, nurturing environment for neurodivergent children and young people who face challenges in traditional mainstream education settings.
With small class sizes and a collaborative, values-led team, this is a brilliant opportunity to deliver meaningful learning experiences that make a real difference.
If this sounds like the right fit for you, weβd love to hear from you. π
π To find out more and apply, click the link in our bio and go to `Work With Us`.
π
Applications close: Tuesday 17th July
Exploring Stories Through Photography πΈ
Over the past few weeks, pupils in our Sensational Learning Centre have embarked on a creative journey into history, storytelling, and self-expression through The Big Picture Co-Curation Project.
Through hands-on sessions, they explored powerful archive images, experimented with vintage cameras, reflected on storytelling through photography, and used frames to view our campus in new and meaningful ways. They also began creating personal storybooks and collaborated on a new welcome book for our Sensational Learning Centre. π₯°
Their creativity and insight have been incredible β and weβre so proud of what theyβve achieved.
π Click the link in our bio and head to `News & Views` to find out more.
As we near the end of term here at our Sensational Learning Centre, we took some time last week to hold a special assembly to celebrate everyoneβs hard work and achievements over the past year. There were many laughs and even more tears as we bid farewell to two young people moving on to incredible new adventures. π₯°
π¬ Angela Evans, Head of Learning Services, said:
"This school year has been truly exceptional. A time of growth, connection and meaningful achievement. Our pupils have thrived through rich learning experiences, supported by dedicated staff who have gone above and beyond to nurture wellbeing, inclusion and curiosity. Together we have embraced change and celebrated progress. As we reflect on the school year, we do so with pride and gratitude and look ahead with renewed energy and optimism for what`s to come."
A big thank you to all the young people and SLC team for their contributions to the assembly and their dedication throughout the year. What an amazing year it has been!
We`d also like to thank their parents and family members for coming along to celebrate with us. π«Ά
#EndOfTerm #Celebration #SummerCountdown
Pawel, who is supported through our Treehouse service, has been thriving outdoors – and itβs been incredible to watch his confidence grow. π±
He has taken real pride in looking after his garden space and has even been helping out our Facilities team by washing our transport vehicles. These small, everyday routines have become great ways for Pawel to build independence, develop new skills, and enjoy the outdoors in a way that works for him. π πΌ
Weβre now looking forward to working with Pawel to keep developing his garden – turning it into a space that reflects what he enjoys and how he likes to spend his time.
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For neurodivergent adults who require individualised support, Treehouse offers a low-arousal environment. We offer a diverse range of activities tailored to personal interests and needs that encourages individuals to embrace change and enjoy new experiences. Click the link in our bio to learn more. π
Communication is one of the most important skills we use in everyday life.
For Marie, who attends our Gate service, Makaton has been a valuable way to support her communication journey. Marie has been learning Makaton to help bridge communication gaps, build her confidence, and strengthen her communication skills with others. π₯°
In this two-part series, Marie shows us how alternative communication methods like Makaton can empower individuals to connect with others, express themselves, and grow in confidence.
In this video, Marie shares five of her favourite foods using Makaton – a brilliant example of accessible communication in action. ππ
Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Gate Open Evening yesterday! π
We loved welcoming families into our neuro-inclusive space – and sharing how Gate supports neurodivergent young adults aged 16+ to find a future that fits them.
At Gate, we work alongside young adults as they explore what comes next after school, whether thatβs further education, training, volunteering or employment. With personalised development plans, wellbeing-focused support and a team who truly understands, Gate offers more than just a service – itβs a place to grow. π³
π¬ Missed the Open Evening but want to learn more?
π© Get in touch: info@donaldsons.org.uk
