Speech and Language Therapy Technician in Poole

Exceptional People Deserve Exceptional Staff

About Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is a disability charity offering care, education, vocational and rehab services. The charity provides residential care, nursing and supported living. Within the education sector, Shaftesbury operates one school, Shaftesbury Victoria School, and two further education colleges, Shaftesbury Millie College and Shaftesbury Nash College. The school serves students aged 3‑19, while the colleges cater for those aged 16‑25. All students have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and may have physical and/or intellectual disabilities, including profound and complex learning needs.

About The Role

We are looking for a skilled, enthusiastic and motivated Speech and Language Therapy Technician with an interest or existing specialism in Paediatrics / Young Adults. The role is based at Shaftesbury Millie College, a post‑16‑25 education setting that helps young people with learning and physical disabilities in Dorset. The college’s curriculum is aligned to its environment and enterprise activities, which include animal care, catering, retail, conservation and horticulture. Students receive personalised learning programmes that build confidence, independence and wellbeing, with support for Autistic Spectrum, PMLD and SEMH conditions. As part of a friendly, dedicated multi‑disciplinary team, you will work closely with Speech and Language Therapists and Tutors to deliver high‑quality SaLT services to all students. You will plan and deliver both group and 1:1 sessions, contribute to the development of the Total Communication Provision and share responsibility for safeguarding and supporting the college’s safeguarding policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the EHCP needs of students within the Communication and Interaction element.
• Offer suggestions and ideas for treatment plans through discussion with the qualified SaLT team regarding Speech and Language Therapy treatment plans and programmes.
• Carry out a therapeutic programme of work independently and without direct supervision.
• Monitor the student’s progress and recognise when to discuss any changes with the Speech and Language Therapists.
• Encourage students and staff to actively develop communication and language, demonstrating empathy, sensitivity and excellent interpersonal skills.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

• GCSEs (A‑C) or equivalent to the role.
• Experience working with young people in a special school, mainstream school, care setting or paediatric speech and language therapy setting.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children and young people.
• Willingness to work collaboratively within a team to train staff.
• Awareness of relevant medical conditions and diagnoses related to speech, language and communication needs, and familiarity with the equipment and tools used to support them.

Why Join Us?

• Passionate about working with young people and using an integrated therapy and education approach.
• Be part of a dedicated, inclusive, supportive team.
• Enjoy professional development opportunities, including in‑service training and support for further qualifications.
• Term‑time working provides a good work‑home balance.
• Experience a unique work environment on a 350‑acre countryside site near Poole.

Safeguarding

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Shaftesbury Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and staff. All staff and volunteers share this commitment. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check and will follow rigorous safer recruitment processes.

Equality and Diversity

Shaftesbury is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. We aim to create and sustain an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. The post holder must uphold the Equality and Diversity Policy and comply with the code of conduct that sets out our standards of behaviour towards those who use our services or work within them.

Application Process

Please provide a personal statement with your application. For the job description and application form, contact Cenan Chappell at cchappell@victoria.poole.sch.uk. Closing date: Until the role is filled. Interview dates will be confirmed. Early applications are strongly encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the advert if we appoint the appropriate candidate before the above dates. Visits to the setting are welcomed and encouraged by arrangement.