Speech And Language Assistant

Job Description

Speech and Language Therapist - Specialist Independent School (Gillingham)

Location: Gillingham, KentSalary: Competitive, dependent on experienceContract: Full-time or part-time consideredStart date: ASAP

About Us

We are a specialist independent school for students aged 11 to 19 who face significant barriers to learning or who are unable to access mainstream education. Many of our students are referred by Local Authorities and have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Others join us after being identified as at risk of permanent exclusion, while some have already reached that point in mainstream settings.

As a small, nurturing school based in Kent and Medway, we pride ourselves on truly knowing each student and providing a holistic, individualised approach that supports their communication, emotional, social, and academic development.

Every young person in our care is provided with a safe, structured, supportive, and stimulating learning environment, where they are valued as an individual and are encouraged to thrive.

The Role

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Speech and Language Therapist (SaLT) to join our multidisciplinary team. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young people with a wide range of communication needs, including social communication difficulties, language disorders, autism, SEMH needs, and other complex barriers to learning.

You will:

  • Carry out high-quality speech, language, and communication assessments
  • Deliver individual and small-group therapy sessions
  • Support and train staff to embed communication strategies across the curriculum
  • Write clear, professional reports for internal use and EHCP annual reviews
  • Develop social communication, confidence, and emotional literacy skills in pupils
  • Work collaboratively with teachers, support staff, pastoral teams, parents, and external professionals

About You

We are looking for someone who is:

  • A qualified Speech and Language Therapist with HCPC registration
  • Confident supporting young people with complex needs
  • Skilled in working within specialist or alternative education environments (experience beneficial but not essential)
  • An excellent communicator who can build strong, trusting relationships with young people
  • Adaptable, creative, and passionate about inclusive practice
  • Committed to improving outcomes for students who have struggled in traditional settings

Newly qualified therapists are welcome and will be fully supported.

What We Offer

  • A warm, welcoming, and supportive working environment
  • Small class sizes and time to build meaningful relationships with students
  • Ongoing training, CPD, and clinical supervision
  • Collaborative work alongside an experienced multidisciplinary team
  • The opportunity to make a genuine impact on young lives

How to Apply

If you have a passion for empowering young people through communication and want to work in a setting that truly values individuality, we would love to hear from you.