At a Glance
- Tasks: Work directly with children and lead AAC development in a supportive team.
- Company: Join Words First, a passionate multidisciplinary team dedicated to improving children's outcomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy leadership opportunities, professional growth, and a rewarding caseload.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on innovation and interdisciplinary practice.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping AAC practices.
- Qualifications: Qualified Speech and Language or Occupational Therapist with significant paediatric experience.
The predicted salary is between 47810 - 54710 £ per year.
About Words First
Words First is a multidisciplinary team of Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Educational Psychologists, Counsellors and Play Therapists working across mainstream and specialist educational settings. We are passionate about interdisciplinary practice and supporting children and young people to access learning, participate fully in school life, and achieve their potential.
We are seeking an experienced Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist with a specialist interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to join our team as a Band 7 AAC Highly Specialist Therapist.
About the Role
This is a dual-role position combining a school-based clinical caseload with specialist AAC leadership responsibilities. The majority of your role will involve working directly with children and young people across a range of educational settings, including mainstream schools, specialist provisions and resource bases. Alongside your clinical work, you will contribute to the development and leadership of our AAC pathway, helping to ensure high-quality, evidence-informed AAC support across the organisation. This role is ideal for a clinician who enjoys direct work with children while also wanting to influence practice, develop resources, support colleagues and shape service delivery.
Clinical Responsibilities
- Deliver assessment, intervention, consultation and training across a range of school settings.
- Manage a diverse caseload of children and young people with additional needs.
- Work collaboratively with school staff, families and multidisciplinary teams.
- Contribute to EHCP advice, annual reviews and outcome setting.
- Deliver neurodivergent-affirming, child-centred and evidence-informed practice.
- Support schools to develop inclusive learning environments.
- Measure and demonstrate impact through meaningful outcomes.
AAC Specialist Responsibilities
- Lead the vision and ongoing development of the AAC pathway within Words First.
- Develop and share AAC resources, guidance and practical tools for therapists and schools.
- Support therapists to build confidence and competence in AAC implementation.
- Provide specialist consultation for complex AAC cases.
- Develop and deliver training to therapists, educators and families.
- Work closely with Pathway Leads and Senior Supervisors to ensure consistent and impactful AAC provision.
- Contribute to service innovation, quality improvement and pathway development.
- Champion interdisciplinary practice and collaborative problem-solving.
Essential Criteria
- Qualified Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist with HCPC registration.
- Minimum of 8 years' post-qualification paediatric experience.
- Minimum of 2 years' experience working within AAC.
- Experience working across a range of educational settings and client groups.
- Demonstrated experience working across the majority of Senior Practitioner Standards.
- Working at the expected level across all Core Standards, including professional responsibilities and company deadlines.
- Strong understanding of neurodivergent-affirming practice and inclusive education.
- Excellent communication, leadership and relationship-building skills.
Desirable
- Experience supporting therapists through mentoring, supervision or training.
- Experience leading projects, pathways or service developments.
- Experience working within multidisciplinary teams.
- Knowledge of current AAC research, technology and best practice.
Why Join Words First?
- Maintain a varied and rewarding school-based caseload.
- Shape the future of AAC provision across a growing multidisciplinary organisation.
- Access leadership development and specialist career progression opportunities.
- Work alongside a highly collaborative team committed to interdisciplinary practice.
- Be part of an organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people.
At Words First, we value curiosity, collaboration, innovation and a commitment to making a difference. If you are passionate about AAC and ready to combine specialist leadership with hands-on clinical practice, we would love to hear from you.
Band 7 AAC Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist in London employer: Words First
Words First is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people. As a Band 7 AAC Highly Specialist Therapist, you will enjoy a rewarding school-based caseload while having the opportunity to shape AAC provision within a supportive multidisciplinary team. With access to leadership development and specialist career progression, Words First is committed to your professional growth and making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 7 AAC Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist in London
✨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 Words First. 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 Words First.
We think you need these skills to ace Band 7 AAC Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist or Occupational Therapist in London
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 Words First:Take some time to research Words First 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 Words First
✨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 Words First's values and approach.
