Signing Super Star Alice Wins Top Award

A college student with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been recognised with a prestigious national award for her outstanding work promoting Makaton signing.

Alice Glennon, a residential student at Derwen College in Shropshire, won the Advocacy, Policy and Media category of the Learning Disability and Autism Leaders’ Awards 2025 for her work in the mainstream media, including on television’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

The awards, hosted by Dimensions UK, celebrate individuals with learning disabilities and autism who are breaking down barriers and making a positive impact in their communities.

This year’s competition saw over 100 inspiring entries from across the country.

According to judges, Alice stood out for her passionate and consistent advocacy of Makaton – a communication programme that combines signs, symbols and speech to support people with learning difficulties and communication needs.

Her campaigning, particularly around encouraging the use of inclusive signing on BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, has had national reach and real impact.

Since 2018, Alice has used social media to encourage ‘Strictly’ celebrities and professional dancers to include Makaton signs in their routines. Thanks to her efforts, viewers now regularly see stars signing ‘thank you’ and other key words live on air.

Alice, who has Down Syndrome, Autism and associated learning and communication difficulties, has even met several of the show’s stars, teaching them signs such as ‘Glitter Ball’ and ‘Keep Dancing’.

Her work not only makes television more inclusive but also raises awareness of how Makaton can empower people to be seen and heard.

She also hosts her own inclusive YouTube channel, Cook Along With Alice, where she shares her love of baking with clear, easy-to-follow Makaton instructions.

“Alice is a real advocate for inclusive communication,” said Derwen College Principal and CEO Meryl Green.

“Her enthusiasm for Makaton – and for Strictly – is infectious. We are so proud of everything she has achieved.”

Alice received her award at a celebration ceremony at the Millennium Gallery in Sheffield.

“I love Strictly and I love Makaton,” said Alice.

“It’s important everyone can understand and be included. I feel proud that more people are learning Makaton and using it on TV and I can’t wait to show my friends the award!”

To find out more about how the team at Derwen College supports young adults with SEND to reach their aspirations visit www.derwen.ac.uk

Pictured: Alice with Strictly Come Dancing professional dancers Nikita Kuzmin (left) and Vito Coppola.