At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs through assessment, intervention, and tailored therapy programmes.
- Company: Join Orbis Education and Care, a passionate team dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only hours, competitive salary, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead and innovate in therapeutic practice.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Speech & Language Therapy and experience with autistic pupils required.
The predicted salary is between 13.75 - 13.75 £ per hour.
Orbis Education and Care is looking for an experienced and passionate Specialist Speech & Language Therapist to join our growing multidisciplinary therapy team, supporting our specialist schools across Cardiff and Swansea.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work with children and young people with complex additional needs, including autism, learning disabilities, communication difficulties, sensory needs, attachment and trauma-related presentations. Working within our "Expert at Hand" model, you'll combine direct therapeutic intervention with consultation, coaching and staff development, ensuring communication support is embedded across school life.
The Role
- Deliver specialist assessment, diagnosis and intervention for pupils with complex communication needs.
- Manage a varied caseload including pupils with autism, learning disabilities, social and emotional needs, and challenging behaviours.
- Support pupils with communication, interaction, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), and eating and drinking needs.
- Develop and implement therapy programmes tailored to individual pupils and groups.
- Provide consultation, coaching and practical support to education, care and therapy colleagues.
- Deliver training to staff, families and carers to ensure effective communication strategies are consistently implemented.
- Lead and promote communication-friendly environments across our schools.
- Contribute to EHCP/IDP reviews, multidisciplinary planning and wider service development.
About You
You will be a motivated and skilled Speech & Language Therapist who is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people. Essential requirements include:
- Degree or Diploma in Speech & Language Therapy.
- Current HCPC registration.
- Proven post-registration experience working with autistic pupils and young people with complex needs.
- Strong understanding of SEND legislation and evidence-based practice.
- Experience of delivering training, coaching, mentoring, or workforce development.
- Knowledge of, or willingness to undertake training in, Dysphagia, AAC, PECS, and Makaton.
- Excellent communication, organisational and report-writing skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
Why Join Orbis?
At Orbis, we are passionate about creating life-changing opportunities for the children and young people we support. When you join us, you'll benefit from:
- Term Time Only working (41 weeks per year)
- Competitive salary of £35,481 - £39,423 pro rata (£45,000 - £50,000 FTE equivalent)
- Clinical supervision and professional support
- Ongoing CPD and specialist training opportunities
- Collaborative multidisciplinary working
- Opportunities to lead, innovate and shape therapeutic practice
- A rewarding role where you can make a genuine and lasting difference every day.
Orbis Education and Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS and relevant safeguarding checks.
Speech and Language Therapist in Cardiff employer: Orbis Education & Care
Ty Trafle School in Swansea is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment where teachers can truly make a difference in the lives of children with complex needs. With small class sizes, a strong focus on professional development, and a commitment to work-life balance through term-time only hours, our staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values wellbeing, inclusivity, and the transformative power of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech and Language Therapist in Cardiff
✨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 Orbis Education & Care. 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 Orbis Education & Care.
We think you need these skills to ace Speech and Language Therapist in Cardiff
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 Orbis Education & Care:Take some time to research Orbis Education & Care 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 Orbis Education & Care
✨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 Orbis Education & Care's values and approach.