At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with speech and language difficulties in a dynamic educational environment.
- Company: Join Leicestershire County Council, dedicated to making a difference in local communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and professional development in a vibrant setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives while developing your skills in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or related degree required.
The predicted salary is between 26832 - 28146 £ per year.
Organisation: Leicestershire County Council
Work Location: Oakfield Short Stay School South - Belle Vue Rd, Earl Shilton, Leicester LE9 7PA & Oakfield North (Shepshed) Forest Street, Shepshed, Loughborough LE12 9DB
Salary: £26,832 - £28,146 per annum (pro rata for part time) (pay award pending)
Working Hours: 37hrs - 42 weeks per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 23rd August 2026
Interview Date(s): TBC
About the Role
Oakfield Short Stay School is Leicestershire's provision for school aged children who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of permanent exclusion from school. We have expanded the age range of Oakfield School and as a result we are recruiting staff. Our Secondary Inclusion Partnership staff who did put provisions in place for secondary aged children and young people who have been excluded from school, or who are at risk of this, have recently joined the team. Therefore, you will be part of a vital team in an exciting period of development, working with us to meet the needs of children and young people between the ages of 5 and 16 who struggle to manage in mainstream and need a different offer of education to secure their successful next steps.
You will work collaboratively within a multi-agency advisory team under the direction of the Head of Therapeutic Inreach and Outreach to provide support to education settings to best meet the needs of children and young people referred to Oakfield. Your role will be crucial in the delivery of high-quality training to professionals and families. Delivering programmes of intervention and group work/support for children at home, in school and early years setting, you will provide advice and support under the instruction of qualified Speech and Language Therapists. Many of our young people present with challenging behaviour, and we are looking for someone who can demonstrate strong empathy and ability to intrinsically connect with pupils with complex SEMH needs and lead in delivering a service that enables pupils to receive the therapeutic interventions that they require.
About You
- Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or Speech & Language related degree
- Experience supporting children with speech and language difficulties
- Familiarity with alternative communication systems
- Knowledge and understanding of how children/young people make attachments and the impact of developmental trauma on development
- Ability to engage with children, young people, their families and carers and a wide range of partners and professionals
- Excellent communication skills, including understanding the effects of nonverbal communication and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely in the most appropriate way, engage children/young people, their families and carers in situations of high stress and communicate difficult information in a manner which enables it to be heard and understood
- Experience of working in an educational setting.
In addition, we also expect you to share our commitment to our values and to delivering accessible and inclusive services which meet the needs of all of our residents. You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these commitments as part of the selection process. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability. We are a Disability Confident Employer.
Interested in Flexible Working? We are open to discussions about flexible working, which may include part time working, job sharing, term-time working, flexible start and finish times, and hybrid working, depending on the requirements of the role and the service. If you would like to discuss the possible flexible working options that might be applicable to this role, please contact the person named below.
For more information or an informal discussion, please contact: Vicky Edwards Telephone: 07860 611280 Email: Victoria.Edwards@leics.gov.uk
About Us
At Leicestershire County Council, we're committed to making a real difference in people's lives. Our aim is to work with communities and partners to deliver public services that make Leicestershire the best possible place to live and work for everyone. Our employees play a key role in supporting this goal and helping us deliver the vital services we provide to the people of Leicestershire. Whether you're starting your career or looking for your next challenge, you'll find a place with us where your ideas are valued, and your work has purpose.
Speech and Language Therapist Assistant in Loughborough employer: Leicestershire County Council
Leicestershire County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at County Hall in Glenfield, Leicester. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for meaningful contributions to the community, particularly in supporting children and young people with additional needs. Our inclusive work culture promotes flexibility, collaboration, and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a real difference in education and inclusion.
Contact Details:
Leicestershire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapist Assistant in Loughborough
✨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 Leicestershire County Council. 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 Leicestershire County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapist Assistant in Loughborough
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 Leicestershire County Council:Take some time to research Leicestershire County Council 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 Leicestershire County Council
✨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 Leicestershire County Council's values and approach.
