At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic therapy team to empower young people with complex needs.
- Company: Stony Dean School, an inspiring special school for neurodiverse pupils.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, generous CPD funding, and structured pay scale.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to inclusive and aspirational learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through innovative therapy integration.
- Qualifications: Experienced SALT or OT with leadership skills and a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 46800 - 57200 £ per year.
Are you a forward-thinking Speech & Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist with a vision for clinical and collaborative leadership? Are you passionate about embedding therapy directly into the educational journey of young people with complex communication, sensory, and interaction needs?
Stony Dean School is seeking an exceptional, dynamic professional to join us as Head of Therapy. In this pivotal leadership role, you will shape and drive our integrated therapy model uniting SALT, OT, and specialist provisions to empower pupils to achieve functional independence, effective communication and interaction, and success beyond school and training.
About Stony Dean School: Stony Dean School is an inspirational special school supporting pupils aged 11-19 with a range of neurodiverse profiles and complex communication, interaction, sensory and learning needs. We are committed to creating an inclusive, nurturing and aspirational environment in which therapeutic practice is embedded throughout teaching, learning and school life. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively with pupils, families, education staff, external professionals, employers and partner organisations to deliver coordinated support at universal, targeted and specialist levels. Our wider provision includes an established partnership with Amersham School and a Supported Internship Programme, enabling therapeutic support to continue across mainstream inclusion, post-16 pathways, employment preparation and transition into adulthood.
As the Head of Therapy, you will provide professional guidance and operational leadership to our dedicated multidisciplinary therapy team of Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and therapy assistants/apprentices. Working alongside the Headteacher, Senior Leadership Team, and teaching staff, you will ensure our therapeutic provision is innovative, evidence-based, and embedded into the curriculum.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Strategic Direction: Provide strategic leadership for the therapy department, driving service development plans and collaborating with the Senior Leadership Team to align therapeutic goals with wider school development priorities.
- Curriculum Integration: Embedding therapeutic strategies into daily classroom practice, enabling pupils to access learning and develop key life skills.
- Clinical Practice: Managing a specialist clinical caseload (SALT or OT) using evidence-based assessment and personalised intervention.
- Team & Staff Leadership: Line managing, supervising, and mentoring therapy staff while driving an impactful CPD programme for school staff and families.
- EHCP Management: Ensuring full compliance and high standards for EHCP provisions and statutory reporting.
- Admissions support: Collaborate with Admissions lead and contribute specialist clinical advice regarding placement suitability, required provision, staffing, resources and potential funding implications. This may include attendance at tribunals.
Who We Are Looking For: We are primarily seeking an experienced Speech and Language Therapist (SALT); however, experienced Occupational Therapists (OT) with strong leadership capability and a background in special education needs settings are highly encouraged to apply.
Our ideal candidate will possess:
- Professional Credentials: Recognised degree/qualification in SALT or OT with current HCPC registration (and RCSLT or RCOT membership).
- Clinical Expertise: Substantial post-qualification experience supporting children or young people with ASC, language disorders, sensory and physical needs.
- Leadership Ability: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary team within an educational setting.
- Personal Qualities: An innovative, collaborative mindset with outstanding communication skills and a commitment to child-centred practice.
What We Offer: A supportive, warm, and collaborative working environment alongside dedicated educators and therapists. A key seat in driving school-wide strategy with backing from an engaged Senior Leadership Team. Generous continuous professional development (CPD) funding and regular clinical supervision. A structured Bucks pay scale mapped to the NHS Agenda for Change framework, together with generous school holiday entitlement.
Important Note: Application Deadline: Rolling recruitment - early applications are strongly encouraged. Closing Date: 16th September 2026. Interview: Week Commencing 21st September 2026. Start Date: 02 October 2026 or ASAP thereafter.
Head of Therapy in Amersham employer: Stony Dean School
Stony Dean School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its staff while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students. Located in the picturesque town of Amersham, the school offers numerous professional development opportunities, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on young lives. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values patience, interpersonal skills, and a commitment to empowering every student.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Therapy in Amersham
✨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 Stony Dean School. 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 Stony Dean School.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Therapy in Amersham
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 Stony Dean School:Take some time to research Stony Dean School 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 Stony Dean School
✨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 Stony Dean School's values and approach.
