Band 4 Speech and Language Therapy Technician

Shaftesbury; Poole; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Shaftesbury Education invites applications for a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant to join our team supporting students with complex communication needs. You will work under qualified therapists to plan, deliver 1:1 and group SaLT sessions and embed communication strategies into everyday learning.

The role emphasizes patience, creativity and a collaborative approach within a supportive, inclusive team. Term-time only with pro rata salary, based in Poole.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English, or equivalent.
• Relevant qualification and/or experience appropriate to the role.
• Experience supporting people with complex communication and learning needs.
• Knowledge of SaLT approaches, with experience or awareness of AAC.
• Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Confident using ICT and communication technology.
• Able to work independently, manage priorities and recognise professional boundaries.
• Positive, solution-focused approach and commitment to Shaftesbury’s values.

Responsibilities

• Support high-quality SaLT provision for students with complex communication needs.
• Manage a small delegated caseload with guidance from therapists.
• Deliver and embed SaLT programmes across daily learning and routines.
• Collaborate with students, families and education staff.
• Contribute to student reviews, reports and MDT meetings.
• Share practical communication strategies and training with staff.
• Maintain clear records and support smooth SaLT service operations.
• Pursue supervision, training and CPD to develop skills.

Skills

GCSEs incl Maths & English

Experience with complex communication

SaLT knowledge/AAC

Team collaboration

ICT proficiency

Education

Relevant qualification/experience

Job description

Exceptional People Deserve Exceptional Staff

About Shaftesbury Statement

Shaftesbury is a disability charity offering care, education, vocational and rehab services. The charity also provides residential care, nursing and supported living.

Within the education sector, Shaftesbury has one school, Shaftesbury Victoria School, and 2 further education colleges, Shaftesbury Millie College and Shaftesbury Nash College. The school is for students aged 3-19, and the colleges are for students aged 16-25. All students have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), as well as physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and some have profound and complex learning needs.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our supportive Speech and Language Therapy team and make a meaningful difference to our students’ communication. You will work closely with Speech and Language Therapists and the wider multidisciplinary team to help students reach their communication potential. You will plan and deliver engaging 1:1 and group sessions, with guidance from qualified therapists, and help embed communication strategies into students’ everyday learning. We are looking for someone who can bring enthusiasm, creativity and fresh ideas to support the continued development of our SaLT service.

Together alongside your colleagues as a team, you will foster a culture of safety, compliance, and excellence. This collaborative approach is essential to delivering high quality support for students with special educational needs, supporting them to communicate, participate and reach their individual potential.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our team, where your contribution will make a real difference in the lives of young people. You will play a key part in helping students develop their communication, participation and confidence, while being part of a supportive and inclusive team that values your ideas and professional development.

The successful candidate will be compassionate, patient and committed to supporting students’ communication, participation and independence. You will bring enthusiasm, initiative and empathy, with a genuine passion for supporting students with complex communication needs. A calm, adaptable approach and excellent interpersonal skills are essential for this role.

Please note this position is term-time only and the salary will be pro rata.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities include:

• Make a real difference by supporting high-quality SaLT provision for students with complex communication needs.
• Manage a small delegated caseload with support from qualified Speech and Language Therapists.
• Deliver and embed engaging SaLT programmes across students’ everyday learning and routines.
• Work closely with students, families, education staff and the wider multidisciplinary team.
• Contribute to student reviews, reports and MDT meetings.
• Share practical communication strategies, advice and training with staff.
• Maintain clear records and contribute to the smooth running of the SaLT service.
• Develop your skills through regular supervision, training and CPD.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

Person Specification

Essential

• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English, or equivalent.
• Relevant qualification and/or experience appropriate to the role.
• Experience supporting people with complex communication and learning needs.
• Knowledge of SaLT approaches, with experience or awareness of AAC.
• Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Confident using ICT and communication technology.
• Able to work independently, manage priorities and recognise professional boundaries.
• Positive, solution-focused approach and commitment to Shaftesbury’s values.

Desirable

• Experience working in a specialist education/SEND setting.
• Experience supporting students with learning disabilities, cerebral palsy or other neurological needs.
• Knowledge of specialist communication systems.
• Full driving licence.

Why Join Us?

What you’ll enjoy:

Make a meaningful difference to students’ communication, participation and access to learning and the wider community.

Work alongside a passionate and supportive SaLT and multidisciplinary team, where your contribution and ideas are valued.

Develop your SaLT knowledge and skills within a supportive specialist education environment.

Safeguarding

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Shaftesbury Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and staff. It is the responsibility of all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check and will follow our rigorous safer recruitment processes.

Equality and Diversity

Shaftesbury is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Shaftesbury aims to create and sustain an inclusive work environment which provides equality of opportunity for everyone and reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. The post holder is required to uphold the Equality and Diversity policy and comply with the code of conduct which sets out our standards of behaviour towards those who use our services or work within them.

Application Process

Closing date:

Closing date: 6th November 2026

Interview Dates: w/c 9th November 2026