Principle Speech and Language Therapist / Clinical Lead

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