Marathon Classroom
Learning Disability Support & Speech Therapy
Fun, friendly support to help you speak, learn and feel confident , all from your home.
About our services
Who we help and what we do
👥 Who we help
We support adults and young people with learning disabilities, including:
- • Down’s Syndrome
- • Autism
- • Speech and language difficulties
- • Communication challenges
- • Neurodiverse needs
💛 What we do
- ✅ Speaking clearly and making sounds
- ✅ Learning new words and how to talk to people
- ✅ Understanding what others say
- ✅ Building confidence and making friends
- ✅ Life skills to be more independent
All our practitioners are fully trained, experienced, and background checked.
🎥 40 Free Language Therapy Videos
Downloadable Videos for Book Clubs
All 100% free, legal, accessible (subtitled/signed) and downloadable. Watch 3 for free , subscribe to unlock all 40.
🔒 3 videos free for everyone. The other 37 unlock instantly when you subscribe.
📚 Books Beyond Words & Storytelling (1–10)
#1 · Free preview · Books Beyond Words
What Happened? , Wordless Story Support
✅ Practice talking about story events using only pictures
▶ Watch & download#2 · Free preview · Books Beyond Words
Going to the Library , Easy Language
✅ Discuss favourite books and places to read
▶ Watch & download#3 · Free preview · Books Beyond Words
Making Friends , Story & Discussion
✅ Share what makes a good friend after watching
▶ Watch & download#4 · Bag Books
Multi-sensory Storytelling Basics
✅ Try simple sounds and movements while reading
#5 · H2H Sensory Theatre
Odie's Odd Odyssey , Sensory Story (Makaton)
✅ Learn simple signs to use during storytime
#6 · NHS Beds Luton
Sharing a Book Together , SALT Guide
✅ Practice turn-taking when looking at pages
#7 · NHS H&W
Understanding Stories , Sequencing
✅ Put story events in order together
#8 · Surrey SEND
Talking About Pictures , Vocabulary
✅ Name objects and actions in book illustrations
#9 · Mencap
Feelings in Stories , Emotion Language
✅ Point to how characters might feel
#10 · Sense
Wordless Book Discussion Techniques
✅ Create your own words for a wordless book
🗣️ Language & Vocabulary Building (11–25)
#11 · Internet Archive
Core Vocabulary for Reading
✅ Use key words like 'want', 'look', 'go' while reading
#12 · ASLT Scotland
4 Simple Language Strategies
✅ Try slow, clear speech and repetition with the group
#13 · NHS Kingston & Richmond
Expanding Sentences , Words to Phrases
✅ Build short sentences about book characters
#14 · NHS H&W
Following Instructions , 1–3 Words
✅ Play simple listening games related to stories
#15 · Learn & Thrive
Asking & Answering Questions
✅ Ask simple 'who/what/where' questions about books
#16 · NHS Beds Luton
Describing Objects & Events
✅ Describe characters or settings in your own words
#17 · Internet Archive
Opposites & Comparisons
✅ Find opposites in stories (big/small, happy/sad)
#18 · Special Stories
Prepositions , In/On/Under/Beside
✅ Talk about where things are in pictures
#19 · SALT UK
Action Words , Verbs for Stories
✅ Act out actions from the book
#20 · Mencap
Naming & Labelling , Reading Practice
✅ Label items or pictures in your reading materials
#21 · NHS H&W
Listening & Attention , Groups
✅ Practice listening while others share
#22 · Sense
Turn-Taking in Conversation
✅ Take turns sharing thoughts after a story
#23 · NHS Kingston & Richmond
Commenting Instead of Questioning
✅ Make simple comments about what you see
#24 · Surrey SEND
Understanding Main Ideas
✅ Share one main thing that happened in the story
#25 · Learn & Thrive
Retelling Stories Step-by-Step
✅ Retell the story in your own words as a group
🧩 Communication & AAC Support (26–35)
#26 · Internet Archive
Makaton Signs for Book Words
✅ Learn 3–5 signs to use while reading
#27 · SALT UK
Using AAC During Shared Reading
✅ Practice using communication boards with books
#28 · Mencap
Communication Boards for Book Clubs
✅ Use visual boards to join group discussions
#29 · ASLT Scotland
Visual Supports for Reading Groups
✅ Use visual timetables or choice cards
#30 · NHS H&W
Gestures & Signs for Understanding
✅ Add simple gestures to support speech
#31 · Sense
Non-Verbal Communication Skills
✅ Practice showing feelings with faces/body
#32 · Learn & Thrive
Choice Making , Picking Books
✅ Let members choose next books or activities
#33 · Internet Archive
Understanding Facial Expressions
✅ Match faces to how characters feel
#34 · NHS Beds Luton
Talking About Preferences & Opinions
✅ Share if you liked the story or not
#35 · NHS Kingston & Richmond
Communication-Friendly Environment
✅ Set up a quiet, comfortable space for reading
🎬 Multi-Sensory & Inclusive Activities (36–40)
#36 · Bag Books
Multi-sensory Storytelling Step-by-Step
✅ Add textures, sounds or smells to stories
#37 · H2H Sensory Theatre
Using Props & Sounds in Reading
✅ Use soft toys or objects while reading aloud
#38 · Internet Archive
Rhythm & Rhyme for Language
✅ Clap or sing along to rhyming stories
#39 · Surrey SEND
Adapting Books for All Abilities
✅ Simplify text or add pictures to longer books
#40 · Inclusive Solutions
Book Club Icebreakers & Games
✅ Play a fun word or picture game to start sessions
💡 How to download legally
- • NHS / Mencap / Sense / Bag Books: click Download or Save Video on the page
- • Internet Archive: use Download Options → MP4
- • Creative Commons YouTube: filter search, then use official offline save (personal/educational use only)
- • All videos include subtitles and slow, clear speech
✅ All videos have subtitles and clear speech. New videos added every month!
🎓 For Carers, Guardians & Volunteers
60-Module Learning Disability Carer Training
A complete UK-recognised training programme for carers, family guardians and people training to become carers. Approx 12–15 hours of CPD , official free certificates included. Released gradually: 10 modules unlock every week of your subscription, so you build skills steadily over the year.
Built for carers
Family carers, support workers, volunteers and trainees , all welcome.
10 modules per week
Released steadily so you learn without feeling overwhelmed.
Certified pathways
Includes Oliver McGowan, SCIE, Safeguarding & Care Certificate Standard 13.
🔒 All 60 carer modules unlock with subscription
Subscribe to start your carer training journey. You'll get 10 new modules every week for the first 6 weeks , then keep full access for as long as you're subscribed.
Annual plan exclusive
Printable 60-Module Training Plan
A 5-phase printable workbook with all 60 modules, direct links, book-club uses and tick-boxes to track progress. Tailored for Marathon Book Club carers and volunteers.
🔒 Available only on the Annual plan.
Upgrade to Annual , £519 / year🟢 Phase 1 · Foundation & Awareness (1–10)
Complete first , builds core understanding
What is a Learning Disability?
Understand differences in how people learn and engage
Oliver McGowan Awareness (Official Standard)
UK-wide recognised baseline training
SCIE Introduction to Learning Disabilities
Free completion certificate
Skills for Care: Understanding Learning Disability
Key principles for inclusive support
Learning Disability vs Learning Difficulty
Clarify terms for better support
Down Syndrome Awareness & Support
Adapt activities for specific needs
Autism & Learning Disability
Support sensory and communication differences
Profound & Multiple Learning Disabilities
Support for more complex needs
Lived Experience: Living with a Learning Disability
Hear directly from people accessing support
Person-Centred Care , Core Principles
Put participants' needs and choices first
🗣️ Phase 2 · Communication & Language Support (11–25)
Most relevant for language therapy & book clubs
Core Communication Skills
Make instructions and discussions clear
Makaton Signs , Essential Starter Pack
Add signs to key words in stories
Using AAC & Communication Boards
Support non-verbal participants to join in
Easy Read & Simple Language Techniques
Adapt text and explanations
Supporting Non-Verbal Communication
Recognise needs and preferences without words
Talking About Feelings & Emotions
Discuss characters and personal reactions
Asking Questions & Encouraging Conversation
Help everyone contribute
Visual Supports & Timetables
Show what will happen during sessions
Multi-Sensory Communication Methods
Make stories engaging for all abilities
Understanding Facial Expressions & Body Language
Spot when someone is happy, confused or upset
Adapting Speech & Pace for Understanding
Speak clearly and at the right speed
Communication During Book Clubs & Groups
Keep discussions inclusive and calm
Listening Skills for Carers
Value what participants share
Core Vocabulary Training
Reinforce key words from stories
Supporting Speech Sound Development
Help with pronunciation and confidence
🧠 Phase 3 · Behaviour, Wellbeing & Positive Support (26–38)
Keep sessions safe, calm and enjoyable
Understanding Behaviour That Challenges
See behaviour as a form of communication
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Full Guide
Use proactive, kind strategies
Identifying Pain & Distress (Non-Verbal Signs)
Spot signs of discomfort
Managing Anxiety & Stress
Help participants feel relaxed
Supporting Mental Health & Wellbeing
Support emotional health during long sessions
Routines & Predictability
Keep the book club structure consistent
Sensory Processing & Sensory Needs
Adjust lighting, sound and seating
De-escalation & Calming Strategies
Calm situations gently if needed
Dementia & Learning Disability
Support older participants
Sleep & Rest Support
Help with energy during your marathon
Bereavement & Loss Support
Support difficult topics in stories
Supporting Transitions & Change
Help move between activities
Carer Self-Care & Wellbeing
Stay well to support others
⚖️ Phase 4 · Safeguarding, Rights & Legal (39–48)
Essential for safe, ethical practice
Safeguarding Adults , Full Training
Keep everyone safe from harm
Equality Act & Human Rights
Ensure fair treatment and inclusion
Mental Capacity Act 2005 , Simple Guide
Understand decision-making rights
Care Act 2014 , What It Means
Understand responsibilities
LeDeR , Learning Disability Death Review
Awareness of health risks
Advocacy & Getting Heard
Help participants speak up
Whistleblowing & Reporting Concerns
Know what to do if worried
Confidentiality & Boundaries
Respect privacy
Consent & Decision Making
Get agreement before activities
Reasonable Adjustments , How to Apply
Adapt sessions for all needs
🩺 Phase 5 · Health, Adaptation & Certification (49–60)
Final skills + official proof of training
Health Checks & Physical Health
Know when to seek help
Epilepsy Awareness & Safety
Basic safety knowledge
Eating, Drinking & Swallowing Support
Safe refreshments during your marathon
Infection Control & Hygiene
Keep the group environment safe
Medication Awareness
Understand basic medication needs
Adapting Activities & Book Clubs
Tailor reading and games for your group
FREE CERT: Oliver McGowan Awareness
Official UK-recognised certificate
FREE CERT: SCIE Introduction to LD
Downloadable on completion
FREE CERT: Safeguarding Awareness
Essential for volunteering
FREE CERT: Communication Skills
Proves your ability to support conversations
Care Certificate Standard 13 (LD Awareness)
Accepted by most organisations
Level 2 Award (Regulated Qualification)
Formal qualification if needed
💡 How to use this training
- • Work through phases in order , Phase 1 builds the foundations
- • NHS / SCIE / Mencap / Skills for Care: click Download or Save Video on the page
- • Internet Archive: Download Options → MP4
- • Certificates (✅): complete the full module / quiz to download your official proof
⭐ Subscribe
New videos every week
Get exclusive videos, practice tools and fun learning , all for a small monthly payment.
✅ What you get
- • 2-3 new videos every week (speech practice, sounds, words, social skills, stories)
- • Easy-read worksheets & activities to download
- • Closed captions + clear speech
- • Safe, simple access from your phone, tablet or computer
- • Cancel anytime , no long contracts
Monthly
£39.99 / month
- ✅ New videos every week
- ✅ All downloads included
- ✅ Cancel anytime
Annual · best value
£519 / year
- ✅ Everything in Monthly
- ✅ 12 months of content
- ✅ Best value , works out at £10 / month
👨👩👧 Need access for 2 people? Members can add a Family add-on (£15/month) for a sibling or carer from inside their My Hub after subscribing.
💷 Funding available
You can pay using your Direct Payment / Personal Budget. We are approved providers , we can send a simple invoice to your council or budget manager.
Pay using funding✨ New Friend Hub
Your Daily Companion
🗣️ 1 hour call every day · any time you want · £69.99 / month
✅ The best plan we have!
✅ What you get
- • A kind, friendly, safe person to talk to , every single day
- • 1 hour call daily, at a time that works for you
- • All Classroom videos & resources included
- • Trained, DBS-checked companions
- • Cancel anytime , no long contracts
Monthly
£69.99 / month
- ✅ 1 hour calls every day
- ✅ All videos & resources included
- ✅ Cancel anytime
Annual · best value
£499 / year
- ✅ 12 months of daily calls
- ✅ Works out at only £33.25 / month
- ✅ Pay once, no monthly billing
👨👩👧 For 2 people? Members can add a New Friend Hub Family Plan (£59.99/month) for a sibling or friend from inside their My Hub after joining.
💷 Pay using council funding
You can pay using your Direct Payment / Personal Budget. We send a simple invoice to your council or budget manager.
Pay using funding🤝 Helpful extras
Resources, stories and a fun quiz
📥 Easy-read guides
- • My Communication Book
- • How to get ready for your session
- • Making friends , simple tips
💬 What people say
“I loved the videos , they helped me speak clearer to my friends!”
“The sessions helped my son feel confident talking to people. It was so easy to book.”
📢 Latest news
- ✅ We now support people across all London boroughs.
- 🆕 New video: How to talk about your feelings , out now!
🎮 Fun quiz
Test what you know!
Question 1 of 3
Which word starts with the ‘sh’ sound?
📅 One-to-one
Book your online session
Talk one-to-one with a specialist speech therapist or support worker , safe, friendly, and all from your home.
- 1Choose what you need help with
- 2Pick a day and time that suits you
- 3Tell us a little about what you need
- 4Pay, or tell us you use funding
- 5We send you everything you need to join
Choose your support
Speech Therapy
Help with speaking, sounds, words.
Communication Skills
Talking, listening, social skills.
Confidence & Life Skills
Be independent, make choices.
Booking opens in your email. Calendly / SimplyBook.me embed can be added here once you share the link.
💰 Simple prices
Prices & funding
30 minutes
£35
45 minutes
£48
60 minutes
£60
📦 Save with packages
- ✅ 5 sessions , £160 (save £15)
- ✅ 10 sessions , £300 (save £50)
💷 Do you pay yourself?
Most people do not pay , we are approved for all government funding.
- ✅ Direct Payments / Personal Budgets
- ✅ Local Council funding
- ✅ Access to Work grants
- ✅ NHS Continuing Healthcare
We can help you apply for funding if you need to , just ask!
📹 Online sessions
How your online session works
You can join in two easy ways , choose what works best for you.
Option 1
Join via Zoom link (easiest)
- After you book, we send you an email with a special link.
- 15 minutes before your session, click the link.
- You join your therapist , no account needed, no downloads.
- Use your computer, tablet or phone.
✅ Best for: simple, reliable, works everywhere.
Option 2
Join directly on our website
- After booking, come back to this website.
- Go to My Sessions.
- Click Join now , your video call opens right here.
- Talk to your therapist directly on our page.
✅ Best for: easy, all in one place, no extra steps.
What you need
A quiet room • Internet connection • Camera and microphone
❓ FAQ
Questions?
Do I need special skills or equipment?
No , just a phone, tablet or computer with internet. We explain everything simply.
Can I bring a family member or carer?
Yes , absolutely welcome.
What if I need to cancel?
Just let us know 24 hours before , no charge.
Are you registered?
Yes , we are CQC registered and approved by all London councils.