Speech and Language Therapist

Job Title: Paediatric Speech and Language TherapistLocation: Essex, UKContract Type: Full-Time / Part-Time (Permanent or Fixed-Term)Salary: £28,407 - £42,618 per annum (Band 5/6 NHS Agenda for Change or equivalent)Reports to: Lead Speech and Language Therapist / Clinical LeadClosing Date: [Insert Closing Date]

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist to join our multidisciplinary team in Essex. The role will involve assessing, diagnosing, and providing therapeutic interventions to children with speech, language, and communication difficulties. You will work in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and homes, providing support to children, their families, and caregivers.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of paediatric communication needs, including developmental delays, speech disorders, and social communication difficulties.

• Assessment and Diagnosis: Conduct assessments of children presenting with a range of speech, language, and communication difficulties, using both formal and informal assessment tools.
• Therapeutic Intervention: Design and deliver personalised therapy programmes based on individual child’s needs, including 1:1 sessions and group interventions.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with other health professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, teachers, and healthcare providers, to ensure comprehensive care.
• Family and Caregiver Support: Provide training, advice, and strategies to families, caregivers, and teaching staff to support the child’s communication development in daily settings.
• Education and Awareness: Contribute to awareness-raising initiatives, workshops, and training programmes for schools and community settings to enhance understanding of speech and language development.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and timely records of assessments, interventions, and outcomes in accordance with professional and organisational standards.
• Research and Development: Stay up to date with the latest research and developments in speech and language therapy, and contribute to service development and evidence-based practice initiatives.

• Qualifications: A degree in Speech and Language Therapy (BSc or equivalent) and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT).
• Experience: Experience working with children in a clinical, educational, or community setting, ideally within the NHS or a similar healthcare setting.
• Skills:
  • Strong assessment and diagnostic skills in paediatric speech, language, and communication disorders.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with children, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate therapy programmes.
  • Organisational skills to manage a varied caseload.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge:
  • Up-to-date knowledge of paediatric speech and language development and related interventions.
  • Familiarity with relevant legislation and guidelines (e.g., SEN Code of Practice).
  • Awareness of safeguarding policies for children.

• Postgraduate experience or specialisation in specific areas such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental language disorder, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
• Experience in delivering training to parents and school staff.
• Familiarity with using digital tools and software for remote assessments or therapy sessions.

• NHS Pension Scheme or equivalent private healthcare benefits (if applicable).
• Ongoing professional development opportunities, including CPD courses and conferences.
• Supervision and mentorship from senior speech and language therapists.
• Flexible working hours and the option for part-time or term-time only roles.
• Opportunities for career progression within a growing service.

• Location: Based primarily in Essex, with travel required between clinics, schools, and community settings.
• Hours: Standard working hours, with some flexibility depending on the needs of families and children (e.g., occasional evening or weekend work).

Please contact Gemma at Piers Meadows