One Vision Studios provides alternative community-based training, covering a wide range of activities; taking a person centred, needs led approach to learning and support that will enable individuals to make informed choices about themselves and their education. Originally established as a not-for-profit organisation by a free speech group of people with disabilities in 1998, One Vision Studios later become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in 2015.
One Vision Studios support various people with diverse needs aged 14+. Some of their members have severe complex care needs, special educational needs, and moderate learning/additional needs. One Vision also has Members and various schools and colleges that buy into their service, visiting them throughout the year for projects and day experiences, ranging from local members to further afield such as Chorley, Preston and Skelmersdale.
One Vision Studios use Signalong throughout the day, promoting signs of the day/week/season, and promote Signalong in staff meetings and in class sessions. They also share signing videos on their Facebook page and are in the process of training all their staff to recognise and understand Signalong.
Facing challenges before Signalong
Before using Signalong, a lot of the teachers who had previously worked in SEN schools or mainstream school used Makaton. Natalie Hamilton, Assistant Manager, Teacher, and Signalong Tutor at One Vision Studios added: “This type of communication although it was good, it did not provide progression for the students. Once the student had learnt the sign package, that was that. There was no more vocab to develop literacy skills.”
Whilst still teaching in these other schools, One Vision Studios was introduced to Signalong. Natalie added: “We all became excited by this because we knew that we could educate a student now so that they surpass all expectations. The level for self-actualisation of each individual reached a new level.”
Natalie first heard of Signalong whilst working at Hope SEN School in Wigan, teaching early years. The same students now as adults attend One Vision Studios where they continue learning and using Signalong.
The key benefits of using Signalong at One Vision Studios
Natalie stated that the key benefit for One Vision using and implementing Signalong is that everyone is heard and has a voice, enabling their members to communicate their dreams, aspirations, needs and wants.
Natalie added: “Signalong supports understanding and expression for individuals with speech, language, or communication difficulties, helping users to convey their thoughts, needs, and feelings more effectively, reducing frustration and misunderstandings. Signalong follows the same word order as spoken English, making it easier to learn and integrate into everyday speech. By using Signalong, everyone, including those with communication challenges, can take part more fully in social, educational, and community settings. It creates more inclusive environments where everyone is valued and understood.”
Using Signalong in Similar Situations
When asked if they’d recommend Signalong to others, Natalie said: “I would highly recommend Signalong because it is an incredibly effective and inclusive communication system designed to support people with speech, language, and communication needs. Unlike some other signing systems, Signalong is based on British sign language and spoken English word order, which makes it accessible and easy for both users and supporters to learn and use in everyday situations.
Signalong promotes clearer understanding and connection between individuals, helping to reduce frustration and build confidence. It empowers people with communication difficulties to express themselves and participate more fully in social, educational, and work settings.”
Find Out More
To find out more about One Vision Studios, visit https://www.onevisionstudios.org.uk/ and to find out more about how Signalong could help you, email admin@signalong.org.uk