At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with autism and communication needs through assessments and therapy.
- Company: Join a specialist education provider dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Meaningful career with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape a new therapy service and empower students towards independence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Speech and Language Therapy and HCPC registration required.
A specialist education provider is seeking a dedicated and passionate Speech and Language Therapist to join its growing multidisciplinary team supporting young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex communication needs. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a newly established Speech and Language Therapy service, helping to shape and develop provision while making a genuine difference to the lives of young people preparing for greater independence and adulthood.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with education, care, therapy, families, and external professionals to assess, support, and develop students' communication skills, enabling them to achieve positive educational, social, and life outcomes.
The Role
As a Speech and Language Therapist, you will manage a varied caseload of students with speech, language, and communication needs, delivering high-quality assessments, interventions, and communication support programmes. Working within a multidisciplinary environment, you will contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes, support students with autism and learning disabilities, and provide specialist advice and training to staff, families, and external agencies. This is an excellent opportunity for a therapist who enjoys working collaboratively and wants to play a key role in the development of an expanding specialist therapy service.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess and provide speech and language therapy interventions for students with a range of communication needs, including complex presentations
- Develop communication profiles, support plans, and individual therapy programmes aligned to EHCP outcomes
- Deliver individual and group therapy sessions to support communication, independence, and wellbeing
- Support the implementation of communication strategies across educational and residential settings
- Work collaboratively with education, care, therapy, and support teams to ensure holistic student support
- Contribute to Annual Reviews, multidisciplinary meetings, and person-centred planning processes
- Provide advice, guidance, and training to staff, families, carers, and external professionals
- Support students requiring Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) approaches
- Make referrals to specialist services where appropriate
- Maintain accurate clinical records, reports, and outcome measures in line with professional standards
- Participate in service development projects, clinical audit activity, and quality improvement initiatives
- Ensure compliance with HCPC, RCSLT, SEND Code of Practice, and Clinical Governance requirements
- Contribute to the continued development of the Speech and Language Therapy service
The Ideal Candidate
Essential Qualifications
- Degree in Speech and Language Therapy or equivalent recognised qualification
- HCPC Registration (Health and Care Professions Council)
- Registered Member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Essential Experience & Knowledge
- Post-registration experience working with autistic young people and/or individuals with learning disabilities
- Strong understanding of speech, language, and communication difficulties associated with autism and learning disabilities
- Experience completing assessments, developing therapy programmes, and monitoring outcomes
- Knowledge of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) approaches and communication technologies
- Experience contributing to EHCP outcomes and multidisciplinary working
- Understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and person-centred approaches
- Ability to work independently whilst contributing effectively as part of a wider team
- Strong report writing, communication, and organisational skills
- Commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development
Desirable Experience
- Experience using Total Communication approaches
- Experience supporting young adults within specialist education settings
- Knowledge of Accessible Information Standards and RCSLT Good Communication Standards
- Experience delivering staff training and communication workshops
- Additional post-qualification training relating to autism, learning disabilities, or AAC
What's on Offer
- Permanent full-time opportunity
- Competitive salary of £37,254.61 per annum
- Opportunity to help shape and develop a growing Speech and Language Therapy service
- Structured supervision and professional support
- Ongoing CPD and training opportunities
- Collaborative multidisciplinary working environment
- Opportunity to work with young people preparing for adulthood and greater independence
- Meaningful and rewarding career supporting students to achieve their full potential
This role would suit a Speech and Language Therapist, Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, SALT Practitioner, Communication Specialist, Autism Specialist Therapist, Learning Disabilities Therapist, AAC Specialist, or Speech and Language Therapy Graduate with relevant post-registration experience seeking an opportunity within specialist education and SEND provision.
Speech and Language Therapist in Leicester employer: Dovetail and Slate
Dovetail and Slate Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture for Speech and Language Therapists in Leicestershire. With a focus on professional development, competitive salary, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with autism and learning disabilities, employees can thrive in a multidisciplinary environment that values their contributions and fosters growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapist in Leicester
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Dovetail and Slate. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Dovetail and Slate.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapist in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Dovetail and Slate:Take some time to research Dovetail and Slate and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dovetail and Slate
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Dovetail and Slate's values and approach.
