Job Title: Speech and Language Therapist Reporting to: Head of Education Location: Meldreth & Orchard Manor Main Purpose To plan, provide and further develop an integrated Speech and Language Therapy service to the pupils at Meldreth Manor School, covering both communication and dysphagia needs. Key Accountabilities Initial and ongoing assessment in communication skills, including AAC. The development, implementation and review of communication programmes. Delivery of speech and language therapy interventions direct and indirect, as appropriate. Multi-disciplinary working with staff teams target setting and supporting the delivery of individual programmes within the curriculum Promotion of a Total Communication approach across the service. Dysphagia management including assessment and review. Multi-disciplinary and multi-agency working, to ensure joined-up management (for complex needs) Development and delivery of staff training on communication and dysphagia management. Provision of advice and support to families, carers and other relevant parties. Delegation of tasks to the speech and language technician and other support staff To contribute to the development of the wider service implementation plan in respect of speech and language therapy input Key Duties Manage and prioritise caseload according to individual need, to ensure equitable service delivery. Work with the SLT Technician to manage workload efficiently. Produce timely and concise clinical recording, maintaining confidentially and the safe storage of both written and digital data. Gain thorough knowledge of relevant background information and conduct comprehensive baseline communication assessments of all pupils and share this with the multidisciplinary team. Produce communication aims for Individual Education Plans, in conjunction with the multidisciplinary team. Plan and implement individual communication programmes and provide accessible written guidelines which can be delegated and delivered by others. Regularly monitor and review outcomes for communication aims/programmes and modify as required Work with the SLT technician and the wider team to develop and maintain Personal Passports for all students. Attend and contribute to annual reviews, provide clear and concise written reports. Liaise and work with other relevant agencies or professions to gain and share information as required, (medical professionals, therapists, dieticians etc), to include attendance at appointment where necessary eg transitions. Contribute to and attend multi-disciplinary meetings such as behaviour support planning Work alongside the SLT technician to develop a range of low and hi-tech AAC systems. Use specialist software to produce grid-based communication systems and accessible resources. Consult with others to identify and implement appropriate AAC/AT equipment. Work with others to plan and implement an accessible environment, including the use of technology across the school. Model good practice in terms of total communication techniques (eg signing, symbol use, language modification, intensive interaction). Provide speech therapy interventions, as required for individuals, group and within the classroom. Assess and provide advice and written guidelines for safe eating and drinking management. Monitor eating and drinking practice and review guidelines as required. Make referrals for specialist assessment or advice regarding dysphagia as necessary. Undertake relevant learning and development to maintain CPD through self-directed study, network links, CEN membership, training and supervision. Maintain clinical expertise in relevant fields, eg AAC, dysphagia. Provide screening assessment for prospective new students; this may include visits to other schools/residential settings. Recognise own professional boundaries with the role and when to seek appropriate guidance Knowledge, Skills and Experience Essential Understanding of eating and drinking issues associated with disability Knowledge of a range of therapy interventions in learning disability Knowledge of a range of AAC systems both hi and lo-tech Good written and oral communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to relate to others and develop good working relationships. Good time-management and organisation skills. Ability to assess, devise and implement integrated therapy plans, based on identified needs. Ability to train staff and modify approach according to need. Good IT skills for administration, presentations, recording and reporting systems Experience working with children or young people with learning disabilities Desirable Knowledge of relevant legislation, current government initiatives (eg EHCP, MCA Knowledge of strategies for behaviour management. Understanding of ASD Understanding of alternative feeding methods Knowledge of Hubs and Spokes model of AAC provision Makaton or Signalong Application of specialist software to produce accessible resources and communication grids Experience working with children or young people with PMLD/complex needs. Experience working with children or young people to manage dysphagia Experience working with AAC systems including communication aids, symbol-based paper systems and symbol software Requirements of Role To be a registered member of RCSLT and HCPC To hold a professional Speech and Language Therapy degree or equivalent. To have a qualification in dysphagia (or a willingness to undertake). To work within the RCSLT clinical guidelines and HCPC standards. Additional Information As part of the Aurora Group everyone is: expected at all times to behave and act in a way which promotes and contributes to the overall aims, values and ethos of the Company. required to participate in regular training and other learning activities, and in supervision, appraisal and development as required by the Companys policies and procedures required to participate in any relevant current and new legislative and regulatory activities as may occur from time to time required, through personal example and clear action, to demonstrate commitment to equality and diversity ensuring equality of access and treatment in employment and service delivery to all. Required to promote The Aurora Groups Health and Safety at Work Policy and Procedure and ensure these are implemented effectively. The Aurora Group takes seriously its responsibility for safeguarding and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young adults. Therefore, everyone employed by the Aurora Group is expected to share this and act accordingly by applying organisations policies and procedures and attending regular safeguarding training. This job description sets out a summary of the key features of the role. It is not intended to be exhaustive and will be reviewed and amended periodically to ensure it remains appropriate for the role.