At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with speech and language needs in a collaborative educational environment.
- Company: Horizons Specialist Academy Trust, dedicated to innovative special education.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on empowering every pupil to reach their potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Experience with communication aids and a passion for helping students thrive.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 41000 £ per year.
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust comprises 8 Academies: Abbey Hill, Westlands, Green Gates, Hollis, Archway, Woodlands, The Meadows and Mo Mowlam. Together our academies support more than 1000 students aged 5 to 18 with a wide range of learning difficulties and additional needs. Abbey Hill Academy & Sixth Form currently supports approximately 360 young people and is recognised for its innovative approach to special education. We specialise in meeting the needs of students aged 11 to 18 with a broad spectrum of learning difficulties alongside a range of physical, communication and social needs.
We are seeking to appoint an experienced and motivated Speech and Language Therapist (SaLT) to provide specialist support across the Trust. The successful candidate will work as part of a highly collaborative multi‑disciplinary team alongside teachers, support staff, our Educational Psychologist, healthcare professionals and other key stakeholders. This is an exciting opportunity for a therapist who is passionate about supporting young people with special educational needs and who is keen to further develop their expertise within an educational setting. We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, patient and empathetic, with a commitment to helping every pupil achieve their full potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Promote awareness and understanding of Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) across the academy community, supporting effective communication and interaction.
- Support and advise teachers and teaching assistants in creating a Communication Friendly Environment throughout Abbey Hill Academy.
- Work closely with staff to identify students’ communication strengths and areas of need, and to determine appropriate interventions.
- Contribute to target setting and provide advice on personalised communication strategies.
- Deliver specialist assessments, support and interventions for students with identified speech, language and communication needs.
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems and communication aids.
- Developing communication partners and implementing communication‑focused approaches, including:
- Intensive interaction
- Colourful semantics
- Makaton
- Gestalt Language Processing
- SCERTS
- Blanks Levels
- Widgit
- Talking mats
While all staff may be required to work across the Trust when necessary, this position will be primarily based at our Abbey Hill Academy site. We are also open to discussing flexible working hours for the right candidate. Horizons Specialist Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check and appropriate references.
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPIST in North East employer: Horizons Specialist Academy Trust
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees are encouraged to enhance their skills and expertise while working collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with special educational needs. Located at Abbey Hill Academy, the Trust offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative educational practices in a vibrant community committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Contact Details:
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPIST in North East
✨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 Horizons Specialist Academy Trust. 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 Horizons Specialist Academy Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPIST in North East
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 Horizons Specialist Academy Trust:Take some time to research Horizons Specialist Academy Trust 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 Horizons Specialist Academy Trust
✨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 Horizons Specialist Academy Trust's values and approach.
