At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners with communication differences and implement therapy recommendations.
- Company: South Thames Colleges Group, a leading provider of post-16 education in London.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, excellent pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and student success.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with young adults and effective communication skills required.
As a college, we believe that young adults should be respected and have their individual choices, needs and aspirations reflected in the educational opportunities made available to them. We encourage independence in all our learners and support them to achieve their full potential through a high-quality curriculum to develop skills in living, work, community, and communication. These skills are planned to reflect the individual learners' Educational and Health Care Plan target outcomes.
The therapy department at South Thames Colleges Group embraces a neurodiversity affirming, strength-based approach, rather than an impairment-based and medical model approach. This means that we accept, validate, and learn from a student’s developmental differences and aim to provide support and accommodations that affirm their neurodivergent identity, rather than thinking that the individual needs to be fixed or cured of their neurotype.
We’re looking for a Speech & Language Therapy Assistant to work under the guidance of the Speech and Language Therapist and carry out recommendations to support learners with communication differences such as Autism, Learning Disabilities and complex needs. Providing support, advice and training to staff and families regarding Speech and Language therapy recommendations, you will liaise with the teaching teams and families/carers to provide a coordinated approach and ensure Speech and Language therapy recommendations are integrated into each learner’s day. Monitoring therapeutic recommendations, you will contribute to and carry out holistic support plans and prepare contributions for EHCP reviews as required.
Joining us as a Speech & Language Therapy Assistant, you will need to have a successful recent record of working with a caseload of young adults with a wide range of communication differences and support. You will be comfortable with devising and implementing Speech & Language therapy recommendations and have experience of contributing to assessment reports or feedback for a wide audience. We would also like you to be able to communicate effectively at all levels as well as establish and maintain good working relations with colleagues and students. You will be able to keep clear and accurate records and work under pressure, to strict deadlines.
This role is primarily based at Merton College but you may be required to travel and work from all STCG sites.
The benefits package includes generous annual leave of 27 days plus up to 8 additional days over Christmas/New Year as well as an additional 5 days Wellbeing leave to enhance employees’ physical and mental health. This leave is all in addition to Bank Holiday entitlement. There is an excellent pension scheme that receives a significant financial contribution from the employer (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme), subsidised sports facilities and professional development and training plus a salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme.
South Thames Colleges group is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. As part of our due diligence checks on prospective employees, successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, an online search and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
As outlined in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act 2010, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
The South Thames Colleges Group is made up of Carshalton College, Kingston College, Merton College and South Thames College, which merged on 1 August 2017. South Thames Colleges Group is one of London’s largest providers of post-16 education and training and is an ongoing and significant contributor to its local communities. We aim to put students’ success at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for hard-working and collaborative people who can join our team and help challenge our students to progress and achieve.
Speech and Language Therapy Assistant employer: Merton College
Merton College is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and professional growth, making it a rewarding place for educators passionate about empowering learners with disabilities. With a supportive work culture, generous benefits such as 40 days of annual leave and a robust pension scheme, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally in a collaborative environment. The college's commitment to tailored learning strategies ensures that staff can make a meaningful impact on students' employability skills while enjoying a fulfilling career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapy Assistant
✨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 Merton College. 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 Merton College.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapy Assistant
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 Merton College:Take some time to research Merton College 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 Merton College
✨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 Merton College's values and approach.
