Speech and language therapist

To protect our autistic pupils and young adults within the National Autistic Society, all employees will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks which will include additional references and criminal background checks. The Speech and Language Therapist supports the delivery of a high-quality, neuroaffirming, evidence-informed therapy service within the school environment. The focus of the role is to support communication, interaction, participation, and access to learning for autistic pupils, helping to reduce barriers and promote inclusion. You will work as part of a transdisciplinary team, embedding communication strategies into everyday school practice and collaborating closely with education staff, families, and other professionals.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver assessment, intervention, advice, and review for pupils with a range of communication needs
• Embed communication strategies across classrooms and the wider school environment
• Work collaboratively with teachers, support staff, families, and other professionals
• Support pupils’ communication, participation, emotional regulation, and access to the curriculum
• Develop and review therapy plans aligned with pupils’ strengths, needs, and aspirations

Qualifications & Requirements

• HCPC registered Speech and Language Therapist and member of RCSLT
• Experience of, or strong interest in, working with autistic children and young people
• Commitment to neuroaffirming, strengths-based, evidence-informed practice
• Ability to work collaboratively within a transdisciplinary team

About the School

Helen Allison School is a welcoming and inclusive independent National Autistic Society day school. We cater for children on the autism spectrum aged 5-19 who have an Education, Health and Care plan. We are a small school that can take up to 83 pupils and on average has around 6 pupils per class. Helen Allison School has been recognised with Beacon Status following Autism Accreditation and Good with Outstanding features from OFSTED.

Employment Details

This role is a permanent contract (35 hours per week) with 12 weeks paid holiday a year, which must be taken within the existing school holidays for your school. This is to ensure our pupils receive the continuous support they require while at school.

What We Can Offer You

• Pension – Auto-enrolled pension scheme
• Training – Great induction and training, including autism training
• Discounts – Online staff discount scheme for shopping, cycling, tech, and more (e.g., Asda, Tesco, Nike, Apple)
• Healthcare – Cash plan for permanent staff
• Life Assurance – 2x your base salary
• Flexible Benefits – Options like private health, dental insurance, holiday trading, enhanced pension
• Support – 24‑hour Employee Assistance Programme and counselling
• Mindfulness – Free Headspace app for you and up to 3 family/friends
• Blue Light Card – Eligibility for discounts

Equal Opportunities Statement

We are an equal opportunities employer and part of the Disability Confident Employer scheme. The National Autistic Society is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks.

Legal

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Agencies need not apply. The National Autistic Society may provide no sponsorship for visas.