Speech and Language Therapist

Speech and Language Therapist (SALT)

Location: Overstone Park School, Northampton
Contract Type: Part-time
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Reports to: SENCo / Head of Support Services

Key Purpose of the Role: The Speech and Language Therapist will play a vital role in supporting pupils across Overstone Park School who present with communication, language, and speech difficulties. The postholder will assess, plan, and deliver specialist interventions to help pupils access learning, develop independence, and reach their full potential within a nurturing and inclusive school environment.

The successful candidate must be a registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and hold membership with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT).

Main Responsibilities: Clinical and Therapeutic Responsibilities:

• Deliver high-quality speech and language therapy interventions through individual, small-group, and class-based sessions.
• Assess and diagnose speech, language, and communication needs using recognised, evidence-based assessment tools.
• Develop individualised therapy programmes and targets in collaboration with teachers, parents, and other professionals.
• Provide therapy and communication programmes that are integrated into pupils' Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Support pupils with a range of needs, including speech and language delay, social communication difficulties, ASD, and additional learning needs.
• Monitor and evaluate pupil progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
• Maintain accurate clinical notes and reports in line with professional standards.
  
  

Collaborative and Multidisciplinary Work:

• Work as part of Overstone Park School's multidisciplinary team (including SENCo, Behaviour Mentors, Occupational Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and teachers).
• Attend and contribute to multidisciplinary meetings, EHCP reviews, and pupil progress meetings.
• Liaise regularly with parents, carers, and external professionals to ensure consistency of support.
• Support and guide teaching and support staff in implementing classroom-based strategies that promote effective communication.
  
  

Training and Development:

• Deliver training and workshops to staff and parents on speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN), including AAC, Makaton, or visual communication systems.
• Support the induction of new staff, ensuring understanding of communication strategies across the school.
• Participate in continuing professional development (CPD) and clinical supervision in line with HCPC and RCSLT requirements.
• Stay up to date with current research, developments, and best practices in speech and language therapy.
  
  

Resource and Case Management:

• Manage a diverse and complex caseload, prioritising pupils according to need and impact.
• Develop and maintain resources to support intervention and classroom integration.
• Recommend, source, and manage communication aids and assistive technology (e.g. AAC devices, PODD books, Eye Gaze systems).
• Work collaboratively with class teams to ensure the consistent use of symbols, communication boards, and other visual supports.
  
  

Safeguarding and Compliance:

• Adhere to Overstone Park School's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and ensure pupils' safety and wellbeing are paramount in all practice.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Be familiar with and work within statutory frameworks, including the SEND Code of Practice, Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), and Equality Act 2010.
• Uphold HCPC and RCSLT standards of proficiency and ethics.
  
  

Professional Expectations:

• Maintain up-to-date HCPC registration and professional indemnity insurance.
• Engage in reflective practice and contribute to departmental service development.
• Participate in school-wide initiatives, staff meetings, and professional reviews.
• Contribute to the positive, supportive culture of Overstone Park School, promoting high standards of inclusion and care.
  
  

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• BSc or MSc in Speech and Language Therapy.
• HCPC registration and RCSLT membership.
• Experience working with children and young people with SLCN, ASD, or complex communication needs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  
  

Desirable:

• Experience in an educational or special school setting.
• Knowledge of AAC systems, Makaton, PECS, or PODD communication methods.
• Evidence of CPD in paediatric or educational speech and language therapy.
  
  

Personal Attributes:

• Empathetic, patient, and supportive in approach.
• Strong organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Commitment to inclusive education and child-centred practice.
• Professional integrity and a reflective approach to ongoing development.
  
  

Safeguarding Statement: Overstone Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
All staff are expected to share this commitment and uphold the highest standards of conduct and care.

Offers of employment are subject to:

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Verification of the right to work in the UK.
• Satisfactory references and online checks.
• Medical clearance and confirmation of suitability to work with children.

Applicants must declare any unspent convictions, cautions, or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.

Application Process

Applications must be made via the school's website or recruitment portal.
CVs will not be accepted.
For more information, please contact:
Overstone Park School, Northampton

About Overstone Park School:

A non-selective independent school registered with DFE and ISI for boys and girls aged 5 to 18 years.

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