Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Speech and Language Therapy Assistant

Children and Public Health – Education, Inclusion and Early Years

Are you passionate about helping children and young people find their voice? Do you want to make a real difference by supporting children with speech, language and communication needs while developing your skills within a friendly and innovative team?

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Speech and Language Therapy Assistant to join our highly regarded SEND Therapy Service. This contract is offered on a full time and fixed term contract basis (4 years).

We are an ambitious, impact-driven service working creatively across schools and early years settings to improve outcomes for children and young people with speech, language and communication needs. We are proud of our inclusive, relationship-based approach and our reputation for working in innovative and meaningful ways alongside schools, families and professionals.

As a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, you will work closely with qualified Speech and Language Therapists to support the delivery of high-quality targeted interventions and advice. Your role will include:

• Delivering targeted group speech, language and communication programmes under the guidance of qualified Speech and Language Therapists.
• Supporting children and young people in schools, early years settings and other community environments.
• Working collaboratively with education staff, families and other professionals to help children achieve the best possible outcomes.
• Monitoring progress, maintaining accurate records and contributing to reviews of intervention.
• Helping to develop communication-friendly environments that enable children and young people to thrive.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with children, is keen to develop new skills and wants to be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team committed to improving outcomes through inclusion and collaboration.

We are committed to supporting the development of our workforce. Subject to service need, funding availability and meeting the relevant eligibility criteria, there will be an opportunity for the successful candidate to undertake the Speech and Language Therapy Degree Apprenticeship as part of their longer-term professional development. This provides an exciting pathway for those wishing to progress towards becoming a qualified Speech and Language Therapist while continuing to work within the service.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Enjoys working as part of a team.
• Is organised, flexible and able to work independently when required.
• Is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.
• Has experience of working with children or young people.

The role requires regular travel to schools and other settings across the local area.

Come and join a service where innovation, inclusion and relationships are at the heart of what we do—and where you'll have the opportunity to build a rewarding career supporting children and young people to communicate with confidence.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please Click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.