About us

CandLE is a not-for-profit teaching organisation supporting students across the UK who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) and AT (Assistive Technology). We help students achieve their full academic potential by making learning accessible through an individualised approach.

Our Teachers, Tutors, Teaching Assistants and Resource Developers provide learning support for students who could benefit from AAC and AT.

At CandLE, our ethos is that every student should be giving the opportunity to participate in academic learning with the appropriate tools and support to make learning accessible. Every student requires an individualised approach to ensure they are able to reach their full potential.

We believe that developing literacy skills as early as possible, is fundamental for students to be able to go on to access the curriculum and for communication without limits – if you can not speak, the only way to say anything you want is to spell!

Empowering Education Through AAC Expertise

CandLE has a set of expectations in terms of the knowledge and understanding of our staff around AAC, which is supported by training from Marion Stanton and Katie Stanton.

Marion has a Level 7 qualification in AAC, and Katie is completing an MSc in Assistive Technology. Marion is also a recognised expert in Cerebral Palsy, having written two books on the subject — one of which was included on the nurses’ training reading list for a time.

CandLE provides training to schools both individually and through the charity Teach Us Too. We have developed and delivered a successful literacy programme specifically designed for AAC users, underpinned by evidence-based research.

In addition, several of our staff have extensive experience in AAC, within both teaching and Speech and Language Therapy. All our staff receive regular training in AAC and AT from our expert in-house team.

CandLE has also been instrumental in working with exam boards to help establish much more equitable reasonable adjustments for students who rely on AAC.

In 2015, CandLE’s contribution to schools and families was recognised by the Department for Education, with a Queen’s Honour conferred on Marion.

A Message From Our Head of Education - Marion Stanton

Welcome to CandLE where our vision is that children who have Complex Access Needs (CAN) can access learning and fully participate in society if they are given appropriate support.