At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to support adults with communication and swallowing disorders in various settings.
- Company: Be part of an outstanding NHS team dedicated to improving community health in Kent.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements, professional supervision, and diverse learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: You need relevant qualifications; check the person specification for details.
- Other info: Driving is essential due to location; we value diversity and inclusion in our workforce.
We have an opportunity for a Band 4 Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice to join our West Kent Adult Speech and Language Therapy team based in Tonbridge for a period of 36 months. The Adult Speech and Language Therapy (ASLT) service in east and west Kent provides services to people over the age of 18 who require assessment, diagnosis and management of acquired swallowing and communication disorders. We see patients in a range of settings including outpatient clinics, community hospitals, care homes and in their own homes.
As ASLT, we are a team of more than 20 SLTs and associate/assistant practitioners across Kent. We provide regular supervision and have specialist advisors in clinical areas including dysphasia, dysphagia, motor speech disorders, dementia, dysfluency and voice.
Please carefully review the qualification requirements in the person specification as these are also the entry requirements for the apprenticeship. You will need to provide certificates as evidence of your qualifications as part of the recruitment process.
Whilst you will be based in one specific team, your placements will give you a variety of learning environments working across both internal and external clinical placements to gain an appreciation of the different areas of the local healthcare service. As many of our bases are away from public transport routes, it is a requirement of the role that you are able to drive and have access to a car (subject to the provisions of the Equality Act 2010).
Rated ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, we’ve got a passion for delivering high standards of patient care and excellent services to improve the health of our communities. To do this we need outstanding people who share our values: Compassionate, Aspirational, Responsive, Excellent.
We know a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion leads to better patient care and a happier workforce. We pride ourselves in being diverse and welcome applications from people with varied backgrounds, perspectives and experiences.
We ask for information about your protected characteristics on our application forms. This isn’t visible to anyone involved with shortlisting or interviewing you, except when you choose to be considered under the guaranteed interview scheme due to disability. Short listers will see two ticks alongside your application to ensure they apply the principles of the scheme to your submission.
The data we collect helps us to ensure we are attracting diversity in our applicants, that all our colleagues have equitable access to career opportunities and supports us on our journey to being a Great Place to Work.
As a flexible working friendly organisation, we want you to be able to work in a way that is best for us, for our patients and for you. Talk to us about a flexible working arrangement that won’t involve sacrificing time for personal interests or family commitments. We’ll support you to work flexibly in a way that suits us both.
For further details / informal visits contact: Name: Naomi Reay, Job title: Team Lead (West) Adult Speech and Language Therapy, Email address: naomi.reay@nhs.net
Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice employer: Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Contact Detail:
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the Speech and Language Therapy role. Understanding the key areas such as dysphasia, dysphagia, and motor speech disorders will help you engage in meaningful conversations during your interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to current or former apprentices in the field. They can provide valuable insights into the apprenticeship experience and may even share tips on how to impress during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for patient care and community health. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with those of the organisation, especially their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
✨Tip Number 4
Since driving is a requirement for this role, ensure you have a valid driving licence and access to a car. Mentioning this in your discussions can show your readiness and commitment to fulfilling the job's logistical needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly outline your qualifications in your CV and cover letter. Include any relevant certificates that demonstrate your eligibility for the apprenticeship, as these are crucial for the recruitment process.
Showcase Your Passion: In your application, express your passion for speech and language therapy and your commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Use specific examples from your experiences to illustrate your dedication to the field.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the types of disorders you'll be working with, such as dysphasia and dysphagia, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to patient care.
✨Show Your Passion for Patient Care
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for helping others and improving their quality of life. Share any relevant experiences or volunteer work that demonstrate your commitment to compassionate care.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the team and organisation align with your values, especially regarding equity, diversity, and inclusion.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Since the role requires adaptability in various settings, be sure to mention your willingness to work in different environments, whether it's outpatient clinics or community hospitals. Discuss any previous experiences that showcase your ability to adjust to new situations.