Regional Speech and Language Therapist in Leigh-on-Sea

As a Regional Speech and Language Therapist you will play a pivotal role in assessing, planning, and delivering occupational 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 team, families, and external professionals to promote student success, independence, and well‐being. This role is term‐time only and 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'll visit around 5 schools every 6 weeks, with the rest 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 and 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 occupational therapy 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.
• An understanding and recognition that children's safeguarding is paramount, and to report concerns appropriately to the senior member of the school you are working in (Headteacher, Regional Director of Education, along with 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 in 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.