At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex communication needs in a collaborative, therapy-led environment.
- Company: Specialist SEND school dedicated to empowering young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and supportive leadership.
- Other info: Join a dynamic multidisciplinary team and influence whole-school communication practices.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Recognised Speech & Language Therapy qualification and HCPC registration required.
Do you have the right skills and experience for this role? Read on to find out, and make your application.
Long Ditton, Surrey | Specialist SEND School | Full-Time | Permanent | Band 7 Equivalent | September 2026 Start £55,000 - £65,000
Are you an experienced Speech & Language Therapist passionate about supporting children and young people with complex communication needs? Do you want to work within a highly collaborative, therapy-led environment where communication, participation, regulation and independence sit at the heart of every pupil's journey?
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Speech & Language Therapist to join a highly regarded specialist school supporting pupils aged 4-19 with severe and complex learning difficulties, Autism, sensory needs and significant speech, language and communication needs. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team and play a key role in ensuring communication is embedded throughout every aspect of school life.
Working closely with teachers, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Behaviour Specialists, support staff and families, you will help pupils develop meaningful communication, increase participation and achieve greater independence. This role would suit a therapist who is passionate about integrated working, neuro-affirming practice and creating communication-rich environments that enable every young person to thrive.
Key Responsibilities- Manage a specialist caseload of pupils with severe and complex speech, language and communication needs.
- Undertake formal and informal assessments, analyse findings and develop evidence-based intervention programmes tailored to individual pupil needs.
- Deliver highly effective therapy through individual, group and classroom-based approaches.
- Ensure communication strategies are embedded throughout the school day and across all learning environments.
- Contribute to EHCP provision, Annual Reviews, multidisciplinary meetings and statutory reporting.
- Work collaboratively with teaching staff to adapt learning environments and curriculum materials to maximise communication and participation.
- Lead on the implementation and development of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, including both low-tech and high-tech communication solutions.
- Provide training, coaching and consultation to teachers, support staff and families around communication strategies and best practice.
- Champion neuro-affirming, strengths-based and communication-focused approaches across the school community.
- Contribute to the ongoing development of therapy services and whole-school communication provision.
- Holds a recognised Speech & Language Therapy qualification.
- HCPC registered Speech & Language Therapist.
- Member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists (RCSLT).
- Significant experience supporting children and young people with complex communication needs.
- Strong understanding of Autism, severe learning difficulties, sensory differences and communication development.
- Experience working within specialist schools, paediatric services or complex SEND environments.
- Excellent communication, report writing and multidisciplinary working skills.
- Passionate about improving participation, communication and quality of life outcomes for young people with complex needs.
- Experience supporting pupils with Autism, SLD, PMLD and complex communication profiles.
- Knowledge of AAC systems including Grid for Schools, PODD, Eye Gaze and other communication technologies.
- Experience working within transdisciplinary or integrated therapy models.
- Knowledge of Positive Behaviour Support and communication-enabling environments.
- Experience providing supervision, mentoring or specialist advice to colleagues.
- Strong understanding of EHCP processes and statutory responsibilities.
- Competitive Band 7 equivalent salary package.
- Access to a highly experienced multidisciplinary therapy team.
- A genuinely integrated therapeutic model where therapists play a central role in pupil outcomes.
- Specialist resources and communication technology.
- Ongoing CPD, clinical supervision and career progression opportunities.
- Supportive and forward-thinking leadership team.
- Opportunity to influence whole-school communication practice and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people with complex needs.
Specialist Speech & Language Therapist in Westcott employer: Kpi Education
Join a leading specialist SEND school in Long Ditton, Surrey, where you will be part of a dedicated multidisciplinary team committed to enhancing the lives of children and young people with complex communication needs. With a competitive salary package, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work culture that champions integrated therapy and neuro-affirming practices, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a collaborative environment focused on communication and independence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Speech & Language Therapist in Westcott
✨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 Kpi Education. 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 Kpi Education.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Speech & Language Therapist in Westcott
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 Kpi Education:Take some time to research Kpi Education 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 Kpi Education
✨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 Kpi Education's values and approach.
