Principal Speech & Language Therapist (Paediatrics) – Clinical Lead
This is a senior Speech & Language Therapy role with genuine influence, ideal for an SLT who wants to stay clinically active while shaping a growing, high‑quality service.
You’ll be based in an outstanding, child‑centred therapy clinic, purpose‑designed to support collaborative multidisciplinary working within a calm, welcoming environment.
About the service
The clinic delivers specialist SLT provision to children and young people - 6 months to early adulthood, supporting speech, language, communication and feeding needs. Many children present with neurodiverse profiles, complex needs, or are at earlier stages of assessment and diagnostic pathways.
Speech and Language Therapy is embedded within a fully integrated MDT, with close links between communication, feeding, and sensory integration practice.
The role
As Principal Speech & Language Therapist, you will lead clinical standards, mentor junior clinicians, and help shape the future development of the SLT service.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and supervise Band 5/6/7 SLTs, supporting clinical development and service growth
- Maintain a paediatric caseload delivering assessments and interventions across speech, language, communication and feeding
- Conduct and oversee standardised assessments including CELF‑5, PLS‑5, BPVS‑3, VMPAC, and oro‑motor/feeding tools
- Design specialist intervention programmes for complex communication needs, AAC and dysphagia where appropriate
- Provide high‑quality reports suitable for EHCP and tribunal processes
- Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and contribute to strategic service planning
Training & development
- Leadership‑focused onboarding programme tailored to your experience
- Structured clinical leadership development alongside the Clinic Director
- Exposure to Ayres Sensory Integration® principles within communication and feeding profiles
- Ongoing senior supervision and peer reflection
What you’ll bring
- HCPC‑registered SLT with RCSLT membership
- Minimum 5 years’ SLT experience, including 2+ years paediatrics
- Previous senior or supervisory experience (essential)
- Dysphagia experience highly desirable; AAC experience advantageous
- Strong communication skills with families and professionals
- UK right to work (sponsorship may be available)
Benefits
- 28 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Structured six‑month salary review
- CPD funding and access to specialist training
- Employee Assistance Programme, GP access, wellbeing and lifestyle benefits