Speech and language therapists (SLT) assess and treat speech, language and communication problems in people of all ages to enable them to communicate to the best of their ability. They may also work with people who have eating and swallowing problems.Using specialised skills you will work directly with the client and provide support to them and their carers.

As a speech and language therapist you will also work closely with teachers and health professionals including doctors, nurses and pyschologists.

You will need five GCSEs, or equivalent. A minimum of two A levels is required, although in reality most courses ask for three A levels, or equivalent. You will need high grades.

Some courses require the passes to be in specific subjects. Alternatives to A levels are also considered, such as an approved Access course, VCE and Scottish qualifications. It is essential to check the entry requirements of the university/universities to which you wish to apply.

Training consists of a three or four-year degree course accredited by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. Graduates then receive the certificate to practice needed to work as a speech and language therapist in the NHS. If you have an appropriate first degree, you can also qualify by taking a two-year postgraduate qualification.

The courses will include a balance of both theoretical an practical components. The theoretical components will include lectures and seminars in language pathology and therapeutics, speech and language sciences, behavioural sciences, biomedical sciences, education, acoustics, research, methodology and statistics, psychology, sociology and professional issues.The practical components of the course will give the student the opportunity to apply the theory to practice and to develop their clinical skills by working with a variety of patients in a range of work settings under the supervision of qualified speech and language therapists.

Applications for degree programmes are administered by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Most newly qualified speech and language therapists work with a general caseload for at least a year, usually both adults and children. You may then choose a particular group of clients or type of clinical work in which to specialise. Or you might want to move into research, teaching or management.#

Therapists are advised against working independantly for themselves within the first two years of work. However Indpendant Practices may be able to take on newly qualified therapists offering them the support they need.

Look at the NHS careers website www.nhscareers.nhs.uk/details/Default.aspx?Id=288

Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
2 White Hart Yard
London
SE1 1NXTel: 020 7378 1200
Fax: 020 7403 7254
Email: info@rcslt.org.uk
Website: www.rcslt.org.uk