About me,
Karen Soehnle BA (Hons)
For nearly two decades, I worked as a Course Director and lecturer at a local further education college, where I taught students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Throughout this time, I extensively utilised Makaton, which had a profoundly positive effect on my students’ lives. It enhanced their communication abilities, boosted their confidence and self-esteem, and contributed significantly to the development of their independent living skills.
My enthusiasm for Makaton inspired me to become a regional Makaton tutor. In this role, I have been able to promote inclusion and share my passion for this unique language programme with a wider audience.
At present, I apply my Makaton expertise in several capacities. I work two days a week with adults in a day centre environment, delivering Makaton instruction both online and in person. Additionally, I share my practical knowledge while teaching SENCo Levels 3 and 4 for QUEST Direct Professional Services in Dubai. My understanding of effective communication also enables me to support young adults with medical needs within their homes.
Testimonials
"Karen was fantastic. She oozed enthusiasm and passion. She had a good range of wider knowledge around SEND and teaching. She filled me with confidence and I cant wait to learn more! "Diane level 1.
"Thank you so much. There aren't the words Karen", Denise Levels 3 & 4 .
"Very professional and friendly" Kerry Level 2.
"AMAZING" Denise Levels 1 & 2.
" Having never done any Makaton before completing these 'courses, I could not have pictured myself being as confident in using Makaton as I am now. Karen is incredibly passionate about teaching Makaton and it was a delight to be part of the sessions, Thank you" Victoria Level 1 & 2 July 2023
" The tutor has given me confidence to support my sons level of communication. She not only taught us the level 1 but supported us and helped with questions and advice. I will be continuing to level 2" Grace Level 1.
"Excellent sessions. Really enthusiastic and helpful tutor. Karen really helped me to appreciate what a great tool Makaton is for being able to give independence to those with communication needs." Katerina.
"Ms. Karen delivered the workshop in a beneficial, enjoyable, and professional way. I want to continue the rest of the levels with her." Basma, Dubai, Level 1.
"Great workshop Karen is a fantastic tutor that makes learning enjoyable. You can tell she is very passionate about Makaton" Kat Combined level 1&2.
"Very well delivered and it is clear Karen has a real passion for Makaton and Inclusion" Emily Level 1.
"Thank you so much for running such a fun and engaging course" Helen Level 4.
"Really fun, interactive and informative . I would highly recommend parents and teachers to learn or expand their Makaton knowledge", Emily Level 1.
"Very good, so happy that I have completed this course. Karen was super knowledgeable and really took her time to explain things we may not have understood right away", Zoe Level 1 March 2022
"The training has been of such a high quality. Karen is an excellent tutor and is inspiring in her approach to Makaton. I only wish there was a Level 5 to go on to study!" Jacqueline Level 4.
"I joined Karen's Level 1 & 2 training so was keen to have the same tutor for Level 3 and 4 and any future ones because she is amazing! Her enthusiasm and keenness to "put Makaton out there" is infectious and she is a real Makaton champ!" Sarah Level 3.
" Excellent training. I enjoyed both days very much. Karen is so encouraging and really makes you feel like you can succeed. I have already noticed a huge difference in work after level one and cant wait to put my new skills into practice". Elaine Level 1.
"The training was excellent. It provided enough time to learn new material and embed it. Karen is extremely engaging and lead the course at a good pace" Kate combined level 1 & 2.
"As a beginner learning Makaton the overall experience was very enjoyable. The tutor was very knowledgeable and experienced. I would 100% recommend to my colleague to do the Makaton course with Karen. It was brilliant!" Ellan Level 1.
"Karen the tutor was very knowledgeable, passionate and fun. The course was very well run and straight away I used everything I learnt in my sessions at college the next day. Very enjoyable!" Sonia Level 1.
