At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in communication and dysphagia management.
- Company: Join Sirona care & health CIC, a dedicated NHS employer.
- Benefits: Enjoy NHS benefits, 27+ days annual leave, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young children and their families.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience with dysphagia and complex needs.
The predicted salary is between 56515 - 56515 £ per year.
Main area: Children's Speech & Language Therapy
Grade: Band 7
Contract: Fixed term: 12 months (Maternity Leave Cover)
Hours: Part time, Job share, Flexible working, 30 hours per week
Employer: Sirona care & health CIC
Employer type: NHS
Site: Patchway Hub
Town: Bristol
Salary: £49,387 - £56,515 per annum, pro rata
Salary period: Yearly
Closing: 21/07/2026 08:00
Job overview:
Are you passionate about working with children with complex needs? We are looking for an experienced, dysphagia qualified Speech and Language Therapist to manage a caseload of 0-5 year olds with complex eating, drinking, swallowing and communication needs. You will be supported by the Clinical Lead for Dysphagia and the School Age Complex Needs Team Lead. The Children’s Therapy Services identify, assess, support and manage the health needs of children and young people aged 0-18 years, working closely with children and their families in health settings and family homes; and with education colleagues in early years and school settings. You will work across South Gloucestershire and Bristol supporting pre-school children with complex needs and their families in the community. The majority of the clinical work is dysphagia but there will also be some communication work, usually involving augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). You will see children for uni-professional appointments and as part of our multi-disciplinary child centred assessments. This role is offered as a fixed-term contract for 12 months to provide maternity cover.
Main duties of the job:
- A highly specialist clinical practitioner, being a source of expertise, providing support, supervision, teaching, advice and consultation across BNSSG. You will offer highly specialist clinical expertise within complex needs and dysphagia and carry your own highly specialist caseload.
- You will triage new referrals to the team alongside other band 7 practitioners, according to agreed referral criteria.
- You will be responsible for line managing junior colleagues.
- This is a fixed term post for maternity leave cover.
Benefits:
Agenda for Change Salary, full NHS benefits, 27+ days’ annual leave, and participation in the NHS Pension Scheme – just a glimpse of the benefits we offer.
Person specification:
Experience & Skills:
- Experience of line management
- Experience working with children with dysphagia
- Experience of working with children with complex needs
- Experience working with under 1s with dysphagia
- Previous experience in clinical specialist role
Qualifications:
- Degree level qualification recognised by Professional Governing Body (Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists/Chartered Society of Physiotherapists/Royal College of Occupational Therapists)
- HCPC Registration
- Evidence of Master Level post qualification accredited training and participation in ongoing regular CPD in area of clinical specialism (e.g. Bobath training, Post-grad accredited Dysphagia training)
You must have appropriate UK professional registration. This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Speech & Language Therapist Early Years Complex Needs & Dysphagia employer: Sirona-Care-
Sirona care & health CIC is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Speech & Language Therapists passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with complex needs. With flexible working hours, generous annual leave, and full NHS benefits, employees are encouraged to grow professionally while enjoying a healthy work-life balance in the vibrant community of Bristol.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Speech & Language Therapist Early Years Complex Needs & Dysphagia
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
We all know that networking in the therapy and counselling field can lead to great opportunities. Look out for local mental health awareness events, workshops, or support groups. These are perfect spots to meet potential employers and other professionals who might help open doors for you.
✨Leverage Online Therapy Platforms
Many temporary counselling roles pop up on platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace. Make sure your profile is top-notch so when clients or employers are browsing, you'll stand out. Plus, showing engagement in this space can really elevate your visibility!
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're currently studying or recently graduated, don’t ignore your university's career services. They often have great connections to temporary roles in therapy that aren't advertised widely. Plus, they can help you prepare for those all-important interviews!
✨Check Out Local Agencies and Consultancies
Temporary roles in therapy often get filled through agencies that specialise in healthcare staffing. Make a list of local counselling agencies and reach out – a simple email expressing your interest can go a long way. Remember, most agencies appreciate candidates who proactively seek out opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Speech & Language Therapist Early Years Complex Needs & Dysphagia
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Experience:When applying for a temporary role in therapy or counselling, we need to see your practical experience front and centre. Include details of any placement experiences, internships, or voluntary work in your CV. Make sure to mention specific techniques or therapies you’re familiar with—this shows your readiness to jump in and make an impact!
Showcase Your Approach:In your cover letter, take a moment to explain your therapeutic approach and what methodologies you’re passionate about. This is your chance to connect your personal style with the values of Sirona-Care-. Temporary roles often require a quick adjustment; helping them understand your philosophy will assure them you're a good fit!
Be Flexible and Open-Ended:Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your flexibility in your application. Highlight that you're eager to take on varying responsibilities or adapt your style to different clients’ needs. It's a huge plus for potential employers who want someone who can slide effortlessly into their team.
Certifications Matter!:Don’t forget to include any relevant certifications or trainings in your application documents. Specific qualifications like a Diploma in Counselling or any accredited workshops/additional training can set you apart. Ensure these are listed clearly in your CV, as they illustrate your commitment to your professional development and the field itself.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sirona-Care-
✨Show Your Empathy Skills
In the therapy and counselling field, showcasing your empathy and interpersonal skills is crucial. Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated this, whether in volunteer work, internships, or even personal scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some real-world scenario questions where you might need to outline how you'd handle specific client situations. Practise articulating your thought process and the interventions you would consider using, reflecting your understanding of various therapeutic approaches.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since you're aiming for a temporary role, be prepared to discuss your adaptability. Temporary positions often require quickly building rapport and adjusting to different client needs, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated changes or challenges in a work environment.
✨Prepare Your Personal Philosophy
Having a clear understanding of your therapeutic philosophy can set you apart. Be ready to share how your values and approach align with those of Sirona-Care- and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.
