Regional Speech and Language Therapist in Esher

As a Regional Speech and Language Therapist you will play a pivotal role in assessing, planning, and delivering speech and language therapy services for students with diverse needs in a group of independent special schools. You will work closely with the Regional SENDCo, regional OT, educational teams, families and external professionals to promote student success, independence and well-being. The role is term-time only, 20 hours per week, with flexibility in the days worked and involves occasional travel across the designated region to provide therapy and consultation services at each school. You will visit around 5 schools every six weeks, with the remainder of the time working from home. Travel contributions are provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Assessment and Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive assessments of students’ physical, sensory and cognitive abilities to identify therapeutic needs, including fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing and daily living skills.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on assessment results, incorporating strategies to improve students’ functional abilities in the classroom, at home and in the community.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the Regional SENDCo, OT champions in schools, teachers, special education staff, school leadership and other professionals (speech therapists, psychologists, social workers) to develop integrated support plans for students.
• Progress Monitoring: Track and document student progress toward therapy goals and adjust treatment plans as necessary. Provide regular updates to school teams and parents.
• Parent and Caregiver Support: Provide guidance and training to parents and caregivers, offering practical strategies to support their child’s development at home.
• Schoolwide Training: Offer in-service training for staff on topics related to sensory integration, classroom adaptations and other therapeutic practices to enhance the learning environment.
• Case Management: Maintain thorough and accurate records of assessments, progress and communications with families and school teams, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Safeguarding: Recognise that children’s safeguarding is paramount and report concerns appropriately to the senior member of the school (Headteacher, Regional Director of Education, and the Regional SENDCo) in line with safeguarding policy.
• Travel & Flexibility: Primarily working from home, with travel between schools within the region. Flexibility is required for school visits due to varying schedules.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
• Licensure: Valid and current state licensure or certification as an Occupational Therapist.
• Experience: Previous experience working with children, particularly in special education settings, is highly preferred. Experience providing therapy for students with various disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), physical disabilities and sensory processing disorders. Experience in a multi-disciplinary team environment is an asset. Experience with sensory integration is desired.
• Skills & Abilities: Strong knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy practices, including sensory integration and assistive technology. Ability to develop individualized therapy plans and goals for diverse students. Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with staff, families and external partners. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage a caseload across multiple school sites. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices.

Professional Standards for All Employees

• Adhere to the principles of R.E.A.C.H: Resilient, Educative, Accepting, Child-centred, Holistic.
• Always act with professionalism.
• Maintain and role-model high standards in attendance, presentation, attitude, behaviour, conduct and punctuality.
• Never use inappropriate, discriminatory or offensive language in any work environment.
• Always treat children and others with dignity and respect.
• Not undermine fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs to our own individual beliefs.