Job overview
We are a large and dynamic Speech and Language Therapy service of around 100 staff, working across all service areas in Derbyshire.
This exciting opportunity has arisen in the children's team and we are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced speech and language practitioner.
The role will also provide a clinical service to children and young people on the social communication pathway in a variety of settings, including education settings, nurseries, clinics and clients’ homes.
Please contact the service if you wish to find out more about this role.
Main duties of the job
- To provide a clinical service to children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism or with significant social communication needs.
- To manage a clinical caseload of children diagnosed with Autism and a range of speech language and communication difficulties under the supervision of a qualified SLT. The children will be seen in their homes/education/early years settings.
- To use own initiative re choice of activity and level of task within the therapy programme.
- To use clinical judgement and have some freedom of action within scope of practice, which includes alterations to SLT programmes or AAC equipment as agreed with the therapist in order to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of treatment.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
- To provide a clinical service to children and young people with a diagnosis of Autism or with significant social communication needs. Please see job description.
Person specification
Skills
Essential
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and follow instructions
- Good observation and clinical judgement skills
- Effective time management and organisation
Experience and Knowledge
Essential
- Experience working as an SLT assistant or with children under direction of an SLT
- Understanding of autism and social communication difficulties and their impact on development and learning
- Knowledge of resources used to support children with autism
- Awareness of AAC / alternative communication systems (e.g. signs, symbols, communication aids
Desirable
- Experience developing resources using software
Aptitude and Personal Qualities
Essential
- Able to work as part of MDT and multi-agency teams
- Able to maintain judgement under pressure
Education, qualifications and training
Essential
- NVQ Level 3 / NNEB or relevant qualification for the role
- GCSE English (or equivalent)
Desirable
- Undertaken recognised Autism training
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Speech and Language Therapy Practitioner with Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust in Chesterfield, Midlands, England. It is listed as a Band 4 Speech and Language Therapist role. The advertised salary is £28,392 - £31,157 pro rata. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 25 Jun 2026.
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