Upcoming Research Projects
Please note that whilst 21 Together supports the aims of these studies, the research teams provide any text describing/advertising the study, and we, as a charity, have no involvement.
A PhD student at University College London (UCL) is currently conducting a mathematics intervention research project and recruiting children with Down syndrome who are aged between 5-11 years and their parents/ teaching assistants. Please see the flyer for more details.
Pearson Assessment UK, develop and distribute assessments for professionals in psychology, allied health, general education, special needs education, and other areas serving people of all ages and cultures. For their current project, they will ask individuals to solve puzzles, answer general knowledge questions and test their memory skills. There will be 2 assessment sessions, each should take around 1 to 2 hours and will take place either at home or at a local public location. The tests will be conducted by a trained professional (with an enhanced DBS), who will ask you to complete some activities assessing memory and cognitive skills.
What will you receive in return?
After each session, you will be offered a Gift Card to thank you for your participation (total £200) - £75 after the first session and £125 after the second session. To find out where you can redeem your Gift Card click here.
If you are interested, please click the following link to learn more and complete the form to sign-up: Pearson Research Participation Agreement
Project CECiLiA is undertaking research about Care, (Education) and Treatment Reviews for people with learning disabilities. To get involved see the poster here.
A PhD Candidate working in the field of child language development at King's College London is conducting research to understand better how bilingual children who have Down syndrome develop English while using other language(s) at home. She is looking to recruit children and young people with Down syndrome aged 5 to 16 who wish to participate in the study. They do not need to be bilingual to participate. Participants will be asked to do some activities, and we will assess their language and cognitive skills. It will take 2-3 hours in total, depending on the breaks the participant needs, and will be completed in 2-3 sessions. View Research Poster. View Research Description.
A university student at University College London (UCL) is currently conducting a research project titled “Improving Mathematical Abilities in Children with Down Syndrome and Williams Syndrome: Symbolic versus Non-symbolic Training Programmes.” They are now beginning the recruitment phase for the intervention study and would be incredibly grateful for your support. They are recruiting children with Down syndrome and Williams syndrome who are aged between 5-11 years and their parents. Please see the flyer for more information.
A PhD student, funded by the University of East Anglia, is conducting research on the experience of having a sibling with learning disabilities. Learning disabilities can be defined as having impaired intellectual ability and social functioning, with an onset from birth or early childhood. The survey is for anybody aged 11 years old or over (including adults) who has a sibling with learning disabilities, and for parents of siblings. Click on the following link for further information:
Adult survey: https://forms.office.com/e/YcYt7pRRcP?origin=lprLink
Young Sibling Survey: https://forms.office.com/e/fS7ujYiR8a?origin=lprLink
She is also conducting interviews with young siblings (aged 11-15 years old) and parents of younger siblings (I’ve already interviewed adult siblings) Interested in taking part? Contact Zoe Starkie at z.starkie@uea.ac.uk
A pHd student at Aston University is undertaking a study on adolescents (aged 12-18 years) with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (ID) to take part in a focus group study. This study aims to understand caregiver experiences of accessing and using sleep measures. The study will help to identify the priorities for future sleep measure development. Take part in a focus group with other caregivers and share your perspectives to win a shopping voucher! Read more about it. Contact Miriam if you’re interested in taking part: mshab22@aston.ac.uk
4-7 years (Maidstone) - Shooting Stars
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home.
4-7 years (Thanet) - Shooting Stars
Shooting Star Sessions 4-7 years - Thanet (Infants)
Using syndrome-specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social-emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. School staff are invited in to meet the child and see the strategies we use before they start the school year. This project has team working at its heart. The more people that understand the learning profile and strategies to support our children, the more benefit is seen and the more widely the message is carried.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
7-11 (Thanet) - Super Stars
Super Star Sessions: 7-11 years (Juniors)
Speech and language groups focussed on social communication for children with Down’s syndrome who require small group work.
They are speech therapy-led groups with an emphasis on social skills, conversations, friendships, and relationships. The groups provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour.
The groups are designed to complement the individualised speech programmes that children and young people will already have running. Each term is topic-based and allows children and young people to explore each topic in a fun and inclusive environment. Topics include things like; all about me, relationships, community, time, language for identity and transitions.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
Clip ‘n Climb Christmas Party
Come along to our Clip 'n Climb Christmas party!
You can expect:
1 hour of climbing (following a safety briefing)
Pizza/hotdog and squash included for all climbers
Christmas gift for each child (given by Santa!)
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
Thanet 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Thanet Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Monday from 15.09.25-08.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 10am-11am (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
Maidstone 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Maidstone Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Tuesday from 16.09.25-09.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 12:45-13:45 (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: Maidstone Community Support Centre, 38 Marsham Street, Maidstone, England, ME14 1HH
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
7-11 years (Maidstone) - Super Star Sessions
For children aged 7 – 11 years old these small groups focus on speech and language and social communication, yet we also provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour. Each term is topic-based and allows our children to explore areas such as relationships, community, time, and language for identity and transitions in a fun and inclusive environment.
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
21 Together's Zumbathon Fundraiser
Zumbathon Fundraiser
📍 Location: Bredhurst Village Hall, Hurstwood Rd, Gillingham ME7 3JZ
📅 Date: Saturday 10th January
⏰ Time: 3-5pm
Fancy working off the Christmas pudding?
Come and kick-start your fitness journey with the amazingly talented Clare’s Zumba Fitness and Wellbeing, as she brings fun, energy, and laughter to our very first Zumbathon in aid of 21 Together.
Follow Clare on Facebook here.
💃 £10 for 2 hours of Zumba magic!
✨ All levels welcome—from complete beginners to seasoned dancers.
👟 Minimum age 13 (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult).
21 Together is a Kent-based charity dedicated to supporting children and young people with Down’s syndrome and their families. From early intervention and therapy to education and community support, we work to ensure that every child has the best opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.
By joining our Zumbathon, you’re not just dancing for fun—you’re helping us continue to provide vital services, resources, and support. Your involvement will make a world of difference to local families.
What to bring
A bottle of water (hydration is key!)
Comfortable clothes and trainers
Plenty of energy and smiles
Water will also be available to purchase on the day, with all proceeds going directly to 21 Together.
Book your place
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!
👉 Please book by Thursday 8th January at 12pm to secure your spot.
Join our New Year’s Party at Rockits Sensory and Soft Play Centre
Join us for our New Year’s Party at the Rockits Sensory and Soft Play Centre! We're excited to offer a post Christmas party for our younger ones to explore, engage, and enjoy.
Robin Hood Pantomime
Exclusively for the 21 Together Community:
Robin Hood Pantomime!
SOLD OUT
Following the HUGE success of the Puss in Boots panto last year, we are very excited to share with you that we have tickets available for a private showing of Robin Hood!
This showing has been booked out exclusively for the 21 Together community, creating an environment where everyone is comfortable, knowing the people around them.
This has been made possible once again by The Rotary Club of Medway. We want to give a huge thanks to them for making this possible and continuing to support our charity!
What’s the story?
The fine folk of Sherwood Forest are terrorised by the mounting taxes imposed by the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham who’ll stop at nothing to seize the throne of England and claim the fair Maid Marian as his bride. Only the outlaw, Robin Hood, and his band of Merry Men can save the day. With the help of the hapless Silly Willy and his not so glamorous mother, Nanny Fanny, can Sherwood be saved from the Sheriff’s clutches? Or will they be left all aquiver?
🗓️Saturday 17th January 2026
🕓16:00
📍The Oasthouse Theatre, Stratford Lane, Rainham, Kent ME8 8AG
🎟£7 per family
Photos will be taken at the event. It is your responsibility to let staff know at the start of the performance if you do not wish to be in them.
21 Together’s Online Quiz Night
21 Together’s Online Quiz Night
🎉 Join Us for a Fun-Filled Online Quiz Night! 🎉
The winning team will win £100!
Tickets are £6 per person!
(If booking for your team be sure to add the number of tickets needed.)
Get your thinking caps on and join us for an evening of trivia, laughter, and community spirit – all in support of a great cause!
🗓 Date: Friday 23rd Jan 2026
🕢 Time: 7:30 PM
📍 Where: Online via Zoom
🎤 Hosted by: The brilliant quiz master, Phill Thorne
We’re incredibly grateful to Michelle Dowsett of Discovery PA Solutions for sponsoring this fantastic event for such an important cause and Whizzdom Quizzes for hosting.
👥 Play solo, as a team in your household, or compete against your friends in the room! Whether you form a dream team or stir up some friendly rivalry with others on your sofa, it’s all part of the fun.
Expect laughs, light-hearted competition, and lots of feel-good moments. Everyone’s welcome – trivia buffs and beginners alike!
Don’t miss out – mark your calendar and join us for a night to remember!
Get involved in the number game where the prize a £50 cash prize. Purchase your numbers now.
You can also Donate to this quiz night by using the normal Donate button and commenting ‘SpeedQuiz’
You’ll need two devices to play smoothly, make sure you’ve got:
One device for Zoom – preferably a laptop, desktop or tablet to see and hear your friendly host and questions clearly (this could be a mobile phone if necessary!).
One device for answering questions – your phone or tablet, with the SpeedQuizzing app (it’s completely free to download!).
Makaton Level Two Training
Get your Makaton Level Two Training Certificate with our very own Makaton Tutor Trina Pollard.
Annual Review Webinar
Does your young person have an EHCP? Does it work for them, and is it being followed? Come along and find out your rights when appealing an EHCP, and some top tips for being successful in such appeals!
Makaton Level Three Training
Get your Makaton Level Three Training Certificate with our very own Makaton Tutor Trina Pollard.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
S-Club Sessions
S-Club sessions are social groups for young people with Down’s syndrome aged 11 to early 20s. The club is split into three sessions; smiLE, skills and social.
7-11 years (Maidstone) - Super Star Sessions
For children aged 7 – 11 years old these small groups focus on speech and language and social communication, yet we also provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour. Each term is topic-based and allows our children to explore areas such as relationships, community, time, and language for identity and transitions in a fun and inclusive environment.
Christmas Makaton Webinar
Christmas Makaton Webinar
Making Christmas more inclusive for loved ones with Down’s syndrome
Join us on Thursday 27th November at 7pm for a warm, festive and accessible online session designed for parents, family members, friends and neighbours who want to bring more inclusivity and connection to their Christmas celebrations.
We're excited to host a one-hour Christmas Makaton webinar, where you'll learn:
Key Christmas-themed Makaton vocabulary
A joyful seasonal Makaton song
Practical signs you can use throughout the holidays to help everyone feel included, understood and involved
This session is perfect for anyone wanting to support loved ones with Down’s syndrome in a fun, relaxed and meaningful way.
Event Details
📅 Date: Thursday 27th November
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
💻 Location: Online webinar
💷 Cost: £10 per household
Why Join?
Make Christmas celebrations more inclusive and enjoyable
Learn practical signs you can use straight away
Create shared festive moments the whole family can enjoy
Take part in a friendly, welcoming session suitable for all ages
How to Join
Reserve your household spot for just £10 and get ready for a festive, informative and heartwarming evening.
Maidstone 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Maidstone Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Tuesday from 16.09.25-09.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 12:45-13:45 (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: Maidstone Community Support Centre, 38 Marsham Street, Maidstone, England, ME14 1HH
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
Thanet 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Thanet Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Monday from 15.09.25-08.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 10am-11am (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
7-11 (Thanet) - Super Stars
Super Star Sessions: 7-11 years (Juniors)
Speech and language groups focussed on social communication for children with Down’s syndrome who require small group work.
They are speech therapy-led groups with an emphasis on social skills, conversations, friendships, and relationships. The groups provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour.
The groups are designed to complement the individualised speech programmes that children and young people will already have running. Each term is topic-based and allows children and young people to explore each topic in a fun and inclusive environment. Topics include things like; all about me, relationships, community, time, language for identity and transitions.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
4-7 years (Thanet) - Shooting Stars
Shooting Star Sessions 4-7 years - Thanet (Infants)
Using syndrome-specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social-emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. School staff are invited in to meet the child and see the strategies we use before they start the school year. This project has team working at its heart. The more people that understand the learning profile and strategies to support our children, the more benefit is seen and the more widely the message is carried.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
S-Club Sessions
S-Club sessions are social groups for young people with Down’s syndrome aged 11 to early 20s. The club is split into three sessions; smiLE, skills and social.
4-7 years (Maidstone) - Shooting Stars
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
S-Club Sessions
S-Club sessions are social groups for young people with Down’s syndrome aged 11 to early 20s. The club is split into three sessions; smiLE, skills and social.
Makaton Level One Training
Get your Makaton Level One Training Certificate with our very own Makaton Tutor Trina Pollard.
7-11 years (Maidstone) - Super Star Sessions
For children aged 7 – 11 years old these small groups focus on speech and language and social communication, yet we also provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour. Each term is topic-based and allows our children to explore areas such as relationships, community, time, and language for identity and transitions in a fun and inclusive environment.
21 Together Quiz Night
FULLY BOOKED!
🎉 21 Together Quiz Night
📍 Orida Hotel, Maidstone | 🗓️ Friday 14th November | 🕖 7:00 PM arrival for 7:30 PM start
Get ready for a night of fun, competition, and community spirit — all in support of a vital cause. Every pound raised at this special event will go directly to 21 Together, helping children and young people with Down’s syndrome across Kent thrive.
💛 Why This Night Matters
This isn't just a quiz night — it's an opportunity to make a real difference. With every table, every game, and every prize, we’re raising essential funds for 21 Together's life-changing support services.
❓ What to Expect:
🎤 Quiz hosted by the incredible Phill Thorne of Whizzdom Quizzes
🏆 Cash prizes for quiz winner, plus trophies and medals provided by Bay Branded Merch
🧠 10 rounds of quiz action, fun games, and bonus chances to win
🎁 Losers prize (yes, even last place gets love!)
🎉 Extra games on the night:
Heads or Tails – £5pp (win a special prize)
Cheat Cards – £5 each
100 Square Game – £5 per square (win an overnight stay at Orida Hotel)
Bottle Bucket Auction – bring a bottle and bid on the full bucket at the end!
👥 Team Info:
Teams of 6 people
£8 per person or £40 for a full table
Booking solo? No problem — we’ll match you with a team of fellow quizzers!
🍽️ Food & Drink:
Bring your own nibbles for the table
All drinks must be purchased on site
Free parking at the venue — don’t forget to enter your registration on arrival
🎟️ Ready to Book?
Reserve your seat now and be part of something brilliant.
Bring your A-game, your appetite for fun, and cash or card to join the extra games and raffles!
Thanks to our sponsors for making this night possible and hopefully we can make a real impact to our community. A4G Chartered Accountants, Whizzdom Quizzes, Bay Branded Merch, Orida Hotel.
Maidstone 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Maidstone Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Tuesday from 16.09.25-09.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 12:45-13:45 (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: Maidstone Community Support Centre, 38 Marsham Street, Maidstone, England, ME14 1HH
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
2-4 years (Margate) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.
Thanet 0-2 years (Babies) - Little Stars Six Sessions
Thanet Little Stars Sessions: 0-2 years (Babies)
These social and communication groups are open to all families with children aged from 0 - 2 years old. The groups will be led by 21 Together’s Education team and are aimed at teaching key skills such as; Makaton signing, interaction techniques, early physical skills and emotional support, as well as a chance to socialise with other parents/carers.
Sessions are designed to work on the strengths and weaknesses of the learning profile of a baby with Down’s syndrome and allow the families to ask questions and receive syndrome-specific advice and support.
Sessions run every other week on a Monday from 15.09.25-08.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 10am-11am (Sessions will be 1 hour long.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
Cost: Sessions cost £15 each payable at the start of the programme (£90 in total). If you feel for whatever reason that this cost would mean a young person could not attend, we would urge you to contact us as we have financial support available to those who need it.
Canterbury Inflate N’ Play Regional Hub
Canterbury Inflate N’ Play Regional Hub
Open to children and young people with Down’s syndrome and their families in Kent.
Date & Time: 8th November, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Location: Inflate 'N' Play Canterbury Lifestyle Fitness, The Canterbury Campus, Knight Ave, Canterbury, CT2 8QA
Ticket Price: £5 per bouncer
Who’s Welcome: All ages — including children and young people with Down’s Syndrome, plus their siblings, parents/carers, etc.
What Is Inflate ’N’ Play?
Canterbury Inflate ’N’ Play is Canterbury’s largest indoor inflatable arena with over 6,500 sq ft of inflatables, obstacle courses, slides, challenges, and fun zones. Inflate 'N' Play Canterbury Their arena features multiple attractions, is fully supervised and insured, and provides a lively, safe environment for bouncing and adventure.
This is a SEN friendly session, with adjustments to make the environment more inclusive and comfortable, including a limited number of bouncers, no loud music and no flashing lights. Suitable for toddlers right up to grandparents!
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for bouncing (socks required or grip socks).
🚗Plenty of parking
🍰Snack shop on-site
Our Mission: Inclusion & Community
Our regional hubs are all about bringing people together, fostering belonging, and creating inclusive, fun experiences for families in our area. This special Inflate ’N’ Play session is part of that mission — to lower barriers, build friendships, and let everyone enjoy play regardless of ability.
We hope you’ll join us for this bounce-filled, laughter-packed evening.
7-11 (Thanet) - Super Stars
Super Star Sessions: 7-11 years (Juniors)
Speech and language groups focussed on social communication for children with Down’s syndrome who require small group work.
They are speech therapy-led groups with an emphasis on social skills, conversations, friendships, and relationships. The groups provide additional support for children and young people to build self-awareness, awareness of others and socially appropriate behaviour.
The groups are designed to complement the individualised speech programmes that children and young people will already have running. Each term is topic-based and allows children and young people to explore each topic in a fun and inclusive environment. Topics include things like; all about me, relationships, community, time, language for identity and transitions.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
S-Club Sessions
S-Club sessions are social groups for young people with Down’s syndrome aged 11 to early 20s. The club is split into three sessions; smiLE, skills and social.
4-7 years (Thanet) - Shooting Stars
Shooting Star Sessions 4-7 years - Thanet (Infants)
Using syndrome-specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social-emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. School staff are invited in to meet the child and see the strategies we use before they start the school year. This project has team working at its heart. The more people that understand the learning profile and strategies to support our children, the more benefit is seen and the more widely the message is carried.
Groups run every other Saturday (excluding school holidays) from 13.09.25 - 06.12.25 for Term 1.
Time: 09:00-17:00 (Sessions will be 1 hour long. Your session time will be confirmed by email.)
Venue: The Wonderworks, Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, CT9 4JX
4-7 years (Maidstone) - Shooting Stars
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home.
2-4 years (Maidstone) - Rising Star Sessions
Using syndrome specific approaches to learning, these groups will cover literacy, numeracy, self-help, and social emotional skills. Resources will be provided to parents to continue learning opportunities at home. Pre-school and nursery staff will also be invited in to observe and continue work within their settings.