Speech and Language Therapist

They are educated in the study of human communication, its development, and its disorders. SLTs assess speech, language, cognitive-communication, and oral/feeding/swallowing skills. This lets them identify a problem and using their specialist skills and knowledge, work directly with clients and their carers to assess, treat and provide them with tailored support.

They also work closely with teachers and other health professionals, to develop individual treatment programmes.

Speech and Language Therapist is also known as Speech Clinician.

Role Characteristics

Observe and assess people to understand their specific difficulties
Plan and develop therapy programmes
Support children and adults with eating or swallowing problems
Work with children with language delays or disorders
Help people regain communication after brain injuries or a stroke
Work with other health care professionals to deliver the best care

Skills

Team work
Active listening
Empathy
Advice giving
Observation
Communication

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about Speech and Language Therapy

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Apply directly

GCSEs

A-Levels

An apprenticeship

Undergraduate degree

Postgraduate degree

How to become

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences, or equivalent.
You will normally need either A-Levels, BTEC or T-Levels depending on your preference in learning. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers.

If you already hold a relevant first degree, you can apply for an accelerated postgraduate programme in Speech and Language Therapy.

You can also do an apprenticeship in Speech and Language Therapy.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

To practice as a Speech and Language Therapist, you must be registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC).

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

You may choose to specialise in a particular area of practice such as cleft and lip palate, people with swallowing difficulties or learning disability. Other options include Teaching or Research.

You could also do further training and become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner or move into Management. As Head of a local Speech and Language Therapy service you would be responsible for a team of staff and for managing a budget.