This is a maternity cover post and would suit a therapist who is passionate about supporting pupils’ communication and interaction needs through high-quality, evidence-based intervention, and who enjoys working collaboratively in a school environment.  Part-time and flexible working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate.

Who We’re Looking For

·         Experience (or strong interest) in working with autistic pupils, including those with complex communication and sensory needs.

·         Experience using AAC to support pupils’ functional communication (including visuals, communication boards/books, and communication apps/devices) is desirable

·         Confidence supporting pupils with attention, engagement, and regulation needs

·         Ability to deliver targeted and specialist SALT interventions, including small group support

·         Strong collaborative working style with teaching and support staff to embed strategies into the classroom

·         Experience delivering or supporting Attention Autism sessions.

·         Experience supporting pupils with co-occurring needs such as learning difficulties, sensory needs, and social communication differences

·         Confident delivering coaching and modelling to promote collaborative practice with teaching staff.

·         An understanding of the TEACCH approach and structured teaching principles.

·         Confident using Widgit Symbols and visual supports within the classroom.

About Stony Dean School

Stony Dean is an Outstanding Local Authority maintained school for pupils aged 11–19 years, supporting students with a wide range of learning and communication needs.  All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and benefit from a highly skilled staff team.

As part of our integrated therapy model, Speech and Language Therapy is delivered across universal, targeted and specialist levels, working closely with staff to embed communication support throughout the school day.

Key Responsibilities

·         Deliver SALT support at universal, targeted and specialist levels.

·         Provide small group and 1:1 interventions addressing speech, language, communication and interaction needs.

·         Work in collaboration with education staff to promote carryover and generalisation of strategies.

·         Able to facilitate supported social opportunities for pupils during unstructured times.

·         Contribute to EHCP processes, including assessment, report writing and provision planning.

·         Support staff understanding through modelling strategies and collaborative working.

What We Offer

·         12 weeks paid school holidays per year

·         Weekly supervision and support from the Therapy Lead

·         A warm and welcoming multidisciplinary team including OT and wider therapeutic provision

·         Regular CPD and professional development opportunities

·         A supportive school culture where therapy is highly valued and embedded into daily practice

·         Opportunities for flexible working (including potential admin time working from home by agreement)

 Visits to the school are welcomed and encouraged.  Please contact us, if you wish to arrange a tour or an informal discussion.

Stony Dean School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. An offer of appointment is subject to satisfactory references, Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service), PO (Prohibition Order) checks, social media checks and medical clearance.