speech and language therapy work experience

InFocus Charity, Exeter

The vision impairment & complex needs charity

News & Stories

How to get work experience in speech & language therapy.

Speech and language therapy is a crucial support service for our young people. That’s why at InFocus, we provide a total communication approach for students with vision impairment and other complex needs.

This helps individuals to develop connections, ensuring successful interactions, and supports information exchanges and conversations.

Examples include:

• Sign language
• Intensive interaction
• Objects of Reference
• Symbols & other visual supports

So if you’re interested in becoming a speech & language therapist, you may be wondering what skills you need. And can you get work experience to help develop your skills? We’ll cover all this and more in this article.

Can I get work experience in speech & language therapy?

Perhaps you want to see if speech and language therapy is the right path for your future career, or you are currently studying a college course or university degree and require work experience.

Sometimes it is possible to get work experience with your local NHS teams , however, these are very few and far apart and are difficult to get hold of.

However, there are some ways that you can gain work experience without having to apply directly to an organisation. You could try volunteering, doing placements or internships, or even applying for paid work experience.

Volunteering

There are many different types of volunteering opportunities available, including working as a volunteer teacher, helping out at one of our charity shops , or supporting vulnerable children through a youth group.

You can find out about volunteering opportunities by contacting your local council, which will have details on how to access them.

If you’re looking to gain work experience within speech and language therapy, then you might consider taking up a placement. 

Placements are often provided by organisations such as schools, colleges, universities, charities, and community groups.

They offer you the opportunity to gain relevant work experience in a particular field, whilst also giving you the chance to meet new people and make valuable contacts.

For example, you may be able to get experience as a language therapy assistant. This way, you can assist a trained therapist by observing their role.

It’s important to gain experience in specialist areas, such as autism and other learning disabilities. But don’t forget about the importance of gaining experience working in a mainstream classroom environment too.

This helps you prepare for working with children with additional needs later on down the road. You’ll find that you learn far more about teaching methods when you’re working alongside teachers who know what works best with each individual child.

If you decide to go straight into full-time employment once qualified, you may well find that there are opportunities for you to work in both a mainstream and specialist setting during your career. However, it’s always best to start off in a mainstream setting first.

Community Services

Volunteering with elderly people in a nursing home or retirement village gives you great insight into how a person might use communication aids and assistive technology. You learn about their needs and preferences to gain confidence in your ability to communicate effectively with this group.

Remember – Google is your best friend. A simple search can identify a whole host of opportunities in your local area.

Why consider a career in speech and language therapy?

Speech and language therapy is one of the most rewarding careers out there. You’ll be helping young people with disabilities improve their speech and communication skills, which can have a huge impact on their lives.

You’ll also learn new skills and gain valuable knowledge about the daily operations of speech and language therapy. This will help you develop your expertise in the area for the future.

What does a typical day at work look like for a speech & language therapist at InFocus?

A typical day may include:

• Meeting with our students to discuss their progress and plan future goals
• Working with children who need extra support with their speech and communication
• Assessing students using various assessment tools
• Providing advice and guidance to parents and carers
• Monitoring student progress through regular reviews

Therapy sessions usually involve one-to-one sessions, where students meet with a therapist several times over weeks or months. Some therapists work part-time, while others work full-time. However, some jobs may require you to work long hours, such as weekends or evenings.

What skills do you need to be a speech and language therapist?

Speech and language therapy is about helping people communicate better. This includes working with children and adults with disabilities and learning disorders.

It also requires skills and personal qualities, such as:

• Ability to listen carefully and understand different perspectives
• Good interpersonal skills
• Being patient, flexible and adaptable
• Working well under pressure
• Understanding the importance of confidentiality

Work experience at InFocus

If you’re looking to gain work experience in speech and language therapy, why not consider volunteering at InFocus? We can help you gain relevant experience in a range of settings to build and develop skills for speech and language therapy.

Furthermore, you can help us support young people with communication difficulties, allowing them to gain independence. For more information, please see our latest volunteering opportunities . Alternatively, you can email our team at [email protected].

• Professionals

If you would like to start supporting us, or perhaps have some ideas of your own, then why not get in touch. Email the fundraising team to start the conversation.

Get in touch

Get the latest news and events information from InFocus.

Speech and language therapist

A day as a speech and language therapist

You've just qualified as a therapist, and help patients with a wide variety of speech and language difficulties.

Your day begins with a 21 year old man who had a severe head injury. When he woke up from a coma he couldn't talk and had difficulty eating, drinking and swallowing. You see him at home and have been helping him to increase his vocabulary, starting with the words that mean the most to him. After working with him for seven months, he can now hold a conversation with his friends.

You then meet up with a speech and language therapy friend in a mental health team working with young offenders. She's helping an 18 year old with poor communication, memory and social skills. This leads to him misunderstanding people, leading to aggressive behaviour. Group therapy helps focus his language and social skills and address his behaviour.

After lunch, you see a 12 year old girl who has been struggling at school. She finds it hard to understand her teachers and to answer questions in tests. You have been helping her find ways and techniques to support her learning. You have also been working with her teachers so they can better support her education.

At the end of the day, you write a report for a client with cerebral palsy and manage new referrals to your team.

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Considering a Career in Speech & Language Therapy?

Gaining work experience prior to applying to study Speech & Language Therapy (SLT)

Part of the pre-requisites for entry onto a SLT course is have considerable knowledge about what a speech & language therapist actually does and what skills & attributes are required. Gaining work experience with a speech & language therapist is one way of doing this. However, this might not always be possible for a number of reasons. So how can you gain experience and find out what SLT is really all about?

Draw on the experiences and skills you already have:

Direct observation of an SLT is not a pre-requisite as the universities are aware of time constraints faced by SLTs. However, showing an awareness of what the job entails and the skills required is vital. You must be able to demonstrate in your UCAS application and university interview that you have the basic pre-requisite skills required for the role, such having good inter-personal skills, being interested in people, having an ability to listen and to problem solve.

Unsure what skills are required?

A really useful book, ‘A career in Speech & Language Therapy’ by Janet Wright & Myra Kersner, describes in detail the personality traits & skills required to do the job. Once you have an idea of what is required, make a list of the skills and knowledge you have and another list of areas that need further development. This informative book contains worksheets to help with this process.

How can you do this?

There are many activities you can do to get started:

Draw upon your own experience:

Think about skills you use at school, when working, volunteering, undertaking hobbies and any other activities. Think again about what you know and can do, draw a mind-map of what you currently do and what skills are required to do that hobby, task or job. You might be surprised at how many skills you already have!

Develop you skills

A job or volunteering work experience working with others including working in a shop or café, volunteering or working in a nursing home, a library or a children’s group provide opportunities to communication with a diversity of people, even if they do not have a communication difficulty.

Learn more about the role of a SLT

There is plenty of information available on the internet:.

• https://www.rcslt.org/speech_and_language_therapy/careers/howtoqualify
• https://www.rcslt.org/speech_and_language_therapy/careers/work_experience
• https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/speech-and-language-therapist

Watch YouTube clips of speech and language therapy in action. These can be very informative and inspiring:

–  http://s3.amazonaws.com/lsvt-global/videos/24347/SharonsRap_-_iPhone.mp4

–  https://www.lsvtglobal.com/news/video

Contact the local SLT department:

Even if they are unable to offer direct work experience, they might have a student or newly qualified graduate who would willingly chat to you about the course.

University open days :

Attend the SLT talks and visit the SLT stands to chat to the lecturers, even for universities you might not initially consider – keep an open mind; you will learn something new on each visit as each university has a different approach.

For a list of universities that offer pre and post-graduate training visit the RCSLT website:

– https://www.rcslt.org

Access related websites :

All charities have superb websites where you will find a plethora of information. Here are some associated charities:

MNDA, Parkinson’s, Afasic, Stroke Association, Autism UK, Cerebra, cerebral palsy.org.uk, Mencap, Alzheimer’s Society – but there are a lot more. These all have information about the types of patients SLT see and provide background around the types of communication and swallowing problems such people might experience.

There are lots of books, plays, novels and biographies around describing personal insights into communication difficulties. For example, ‘The Diving Bell and the Butterfly’ by Jean-Dominique Bauby, who chronicles life after a severe stroke left him only able to communicate through blinking an eye.

GOOD LUCK and ENJOY THE JOURNEY!

Diary of a Budding Speech Therapist

From application to graduation, follow me on my Speech Therapy journey!

How to get Work Experience in SLT

Something that seems to be a constant source of stress for hopeful SLT students is work experience. The application process for every university involves reflecting on your experience in some way, some won’t even consider your application unless you can boast 25 days of relevant experience, and the first question on everyone’s lips when meeting other interviewees is ‘how much experience do you have???’. Lack of experience is why I was unsuccessful in my first year of applying, and why many are put off by the application altogether. However, whilst extremely important if you want to gain a place on a competitive SLT course, it seems that relevant experience is pretty hard to get. I definitely struggled, and by no means do I have as much experience as many other applicants, but I thought I would share some tips I picked up in what has been a 3-year application process!

First of all, something I would say to any applicant is mention to as many people as physically possible that you are interested in SLT. You never know if someone’s sister, neighbour or cousin’s friend’s daughter’s Godson may work in SLT, and people are more likely to want to help you out if there is some sort of connection. I got my very first observation opportunity through my sister’s Godmother’s sister’s colleague (genuinely), so you never know who is going to have useful connections!

If you do manage to secure any experience with SLTs, mention to them that you are keen to get as much experience as you can, and they might be able to put you in contact with other people in the field. I got put in touch with a few SLTs in this way, and it’s another extremely handy way of gaining experience. Something that became apparent is that due to confidentiality, many SLTs find it difficult to arrange shadowing of them and their clients, but some were more than happy to arrange a chat with me, share any tips they had and answer any questions.

Another way I managed to get some shadowing experience was by contacting every single independent SLT I could find. I simply Googled ‘speech therapist near me’ and emailed every person who came up, begging for just a day’s experience. I must have emailed around 100 people in Brighton and London, and only managed to organise 2 days of experience, but it was worth it. Universities are aware that shadowing opportunities are hard to come by, so if you do manage to find some then that will add some weight to your application.

Something I have mentioned before is that I tried to get a position as a SLTA (Speech and Language Therapy Assistant). SLTAs work alongside SLTs and help make resources, do the admin work, set up therapy areas and sometimes deliver therapy to individuals or small groups, supervised by the SLT. Jobs are often advertised on the NHS website, and independent SLT companies will often hire SLTAs as well. However, I found these positions to be as competitive as the MSc courses, and I was never successful. It’s definitely worth applying though, as this sort of experience would look amazing on your application.

Many people are able to gain voluntary positions with organisations such as The Stroke Association, Sense, Headway, The National Autistic Society and other smaller, local charities for people with communication difficulties. I contacted quite a few organisations, but unfortunately never found anything in my area. Positions are always advertised on the organisations’ websites, and volunteering with people who may have suffered from strokes, head injuries or other communication impairments would give you loads to talk about in your application and interview.

Whilst specific experience with SLT is great, it is also useful to get as much experience as you can with SLT client groups, such as children and elderly people. I was able to spend some time in a primary school, working with children with communication difficulties as well as children with typically developing language. It’s great to show that you have some experience with relevant client groups and should give you loads to talk about in an interview.

My final bit of advice is that Google is your best friend! I spent hours looking for SLT experience and found some great opportunities such as a SLT workshop in Bromley and a SLT observation day with The Children’s Trust, just from searching relevant key words. It’s worth checking every so often, as websites might get updated with upcoming events that may be useful to you!

Whilst racking up the days of experience is great, it will mean very little to the universities unless you are able to reflect on what you have gained from it. You probably won’t get asked in an interview ‘how many hours of experience with children with autism do you have?’ but you might get asked for some specific examples of situations you encountered, how you handled them and what you learned from them. The main thing interviewers are looking for (in my opinion) is that you understand what is involved in working as a SLT, you are committed to qualifying and working as a SLT, and you are genuinely passionate and interested in it. Get this across and you should be fine.

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Published by buddingspeechtherapist

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2 thoughts on “How to get Work Experience in SLT”

Hello! I would just like to say a massive thank you for this post. I am a first year Speech and Language Therapy student here in the UK and I am struggling to find any opportunity for work experience. This post helped me get a fresh look on what I am doing and offered really good suggestions, I’ll definitely try them out! I was getting discouraged and was even thinking of switching my course to something more employable, but this gave me hope!

Hello! I’m so glad it was helpful! Did you manage to get any work experience in the end?

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Speech and language therapist

Speech and language therapists help patients of all ages with varying levels of speech, language and communication problems, or difficulties in swallowing, drinking or eating

As a speech and language therapist (SLT), you'll provide treatment, care and support to babies, children, adults and elderly people with a range of conditions, including cleft palate, stammering, language delay, voice disorders and dysphagia (eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties).

These can be caused by a range of issues, including:

• developmental delays
• learning disabilities
• mental health conditions
• physical disabilities.

You'll usually work as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside other health professionals, and will often liaise with family, carers or teachers when developing treatment plans. You can also work in private practice.

Responsibilities

Your tasks will vary depending on your client and the nature of the problem. However, you'll typically need to:

• identify the speech and communication difficulty or disorder
• assess the cause and nature of the problem, for example, congenital problems (such as cleft palate) or acquired disorders after a stroke or injury
• devise and deliver a suitable treatment programme, working on a one-to-one basis or in groups, to enable each of your clients to improve as much as possible
• review and revise the programme as appropriate
• advise carers on implementing a treatment programme and train other professionals in therapy delivery
• monitor and evaluate your clients' progress
• write confidential client case notes and reports, as well as information for clients, carers and other professionals
• manage a caseload while taking into account priority cases, waiting lists, successful outcomes, referral and discharge of service users
• work within a team to improve the effectiveness of service delivery.

At a more senior level, you'll need to:

• conduct personal development reviews with colleagues
• support and supervise newly qualified SLTs and speech and language therapy assistants
• plan and deliver training sessions
• undertake clinical audit
• participate in research projects.
• Jobs in the NHS are usually covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay rates consisting of nine pay bands. As a newly qualified SLT your starting salary is likely to be £27,055 (Band 5), rising up the pay scale to £32,934.
• As a specialist SLT you can earn between £33,706 and £40,588 (Band 6).
• Typical salaries for advanced or highly specialised SLTs range from £41,659 to £47,672 (Band 7). Some management roles (for example, head of children's therapies or therapy manager) can attract higher salaries at Band 8.

Salaries in the public and private sector are usually broadly equivalent to the NHS bands.

Fees in independent practice vary significantly depending on the scope and size of your practice, your experience and reputation, and your location.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

In the NHS, you will typically work 37.5 hours a week, which may include weekend work and on-call rotas to meet the needs of the service.

In other settings you may have to work some evenings or weekends to suit client needs.

There are opportunities for flexible or part-time work and job-sharing.

What to expect

• You can work in a range of settings, for example hospitals, health centres, day-care centres, rehabilitation units, schools or pre-schools, a client's home, prisons or young offenders' institutions. It's possible to work in several different locations during the week.
• You'll typically work in a multidisciplinary team with other professionals such as doctors and nurses, psychologists, teachers, mental health professionals and dietitians.
• Jobs are available throughout the UK, although there are more opportunities in cities and towns. With experience, you can take on freelance work or set up in private practice.
• Depending on where you work, you may need to travel between client visits.
• Competition for entry-level posts is fierce and it's important to be geographically flexible if possible.

Qualifications

To practise as an SLT you must be registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). In order to register you'll need to complete an HCPC-approved undergraduate or postgraduate degree in speech and language therapy.

Undergraduate degree courses typically last three or four years full time and combine both theory and clinical practice. Clinical practice takes place in NHS hospitals, schools, community health clinics and day centres under the supervision of qualified therapists.

For most undergraduate courses you'll need at least five GCSEs or equivalent (at grade 4/C or above), including maths, English language and science, and three A-levels or equivalent. Some providers may ask for specific subjects such as English, languages, psychology and sciences. Applications for undergraduate degrees are made through UCAS .

A speech and language therapist degree apprenticeship has also been approved for delivery in England, combining paid work with part-time study. Currently there are three universities offering this new degree apprenticeship - the University of Essex, Birmingham City University and The University of Sheffield. For more information, see the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) website .

If you already have a degree, you can take an accelerated two-year postgraduate speech and language therapy course (either a PGDip or MSc) in order to qualify. Some course providers will ask for specific subjects relevant to speech and language therapy such as psychology, human biology/biological science, linguistics/languages, education, social science or medical sciences. Applications for postgraduate study are made directly to the relevant institution.

Entry requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses vary so you should check with course providers for details of what they are looking for. A list of courses approved by the HCPC and accredited by the RCSLT is available on the RCSLT website .

You also need to complete an enhanced criminal record check as you will be working with children and young people, and have occupational health clearance.

Once you've successfully completed an approved undergraduate or postgraduate qualification, you're eligible to register with the HCPC and begin practising.

All pre-registration undergraduate and postgraduate speech and language therapy students on an eligible course in England can receive non-repayable funding support of at least £5,000 per year towards their studies. For full details, see the NHS Learning Support Fund .

Details of financial support for students studying in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are available from:

• Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)
• Student Awards Services (Wales)
• Northern Ireland Direct government services

Entry without a degree is possible at speech and language therapy assistant practitioner level, working with qualified SLTs. For these roles, you'll typically need GCSEs in maths and English, as well as a Level 3 care or health-related qualification (or equivalent experience).

You'll need to have:

• excellent interpersonal, communication and listening skills in order to gain the clients' trust, and to motivate and reassure people of all ages and backgrounds. Clients may be uncooperative because they're frightened, frustrated or disorientated by their situation
• patience, as progress may be slow - involving repetitive exercises to aid clients who have problems memorising, processing and retaining information
• creativity and problem-solving skills, to design programmes appropriate for different learning styles and communication issues
• the ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team, in order to improve the effectiveness of service delivery, as well as independently on your own
• organisation and time management skills, with the ability to plan and prioritise your own workload
• a flexible approach to work in order to deal with a range of clients in varied settings
• the ability to remain calm under pressure
• qualities such as empathy, assertiveness, tact, a sense of humour and physical and mental stamina.

You'll also need a driving licence, particularly if you're working as a community speech and language therapist, to travel between appointments.

Knowledge of Welsh, Gaelic or community languages may be a requirement or an advantage in some parts of the UK.

Work experience

Competition for places on training programmes is strong and you'll need to show that you have a good understanding of what an SLT does when you apply. Try and arrange an observation/work shadowing session at your local speech and language therapy service.

Relevant work experience, including voluntary work, is also useful. This can include working with children and adults with a learning disability, the elderly or disabled people, particularly those recovering from a stroke or head injury. Try contacting local nursing or residential care homes, schools, nurseries or stroke groups to ask for work experience.

It's also possible to gain experience by working as an SLT assistant /support worker or bilingual co-worker under the guidance of a qualified SLT.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

There are around 20,000 SLTs in the UK working in a range of settings (RCSLT). The majority of SLTs are employed by NHS trusts and work in hospitals (on wards, in intensive care units and in outpatient departments), schools, clinics, community health centres and day care centres. Some mainstream work may be managed by local authorities.

You may also be employed directly by:

• nurseries and schools (mainstream and special)
• child development centres
• voluntary and charitable organisations
• GP practices and community clinics
• education and social services departments
• courtrooms, prisons, secure units and young offenders' institutions
• residential homes for the elderly or people with learning difficulties
• higher education institutions (lecturing and research).

With experience, you can work independently or set up in private practice.

Look for job vacancies at:

• HealthJobsUK
• Local Government Jobs
• NHS Jobs - for vacancies in England and Wales.
• NHSScotland Jobs
• RCSLT Jobs - jobs board of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Specialist recruitment agencies such as Maxxima and Your World Healthcare also handle vacancies.

If you decide to work in independent practice, you can become a member of the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP) and have your details added to their register of members. This database allows you to showcase your skills to potential clients.

Professional development

Once qualified, your first year is spent under supervision as a newly qualified practitioner (NQP) working towards the RCSLT NQP Framework in order to become a full (Certified) member of the RCSLT. You will need to complete a set of NQP goals, which will support your learning and practice in your first year of practice.

You'll be responsible for your own professional development and must show that you're developing and keeping your professional knowledge up to date in order to remain on the HCPC register.

The RCSLT provides a range of courses and seminars in areas such as:

• children with severe language difficulties
• adult neurology
• dysphagia (problems with swallowing)
• clinical effectiveness.

Other continuing professional development (CPD) activities include observation of other therapists' practice, reflective practice, peer review of performance, case discussion and video analysis. You can also join a clinical specialist interest group and attend or take part in national conferences and clinical meetings. Full details of the range of activities and resources are available to RCSLT members.

If you're working as a freelance SLT you can also join ASLTIP , which runs events and conferences. Courses cover areas such as setting up an independent practice.

There are also opportunities to undertake a post-registration higher degree, such as a postgraduate certificate, diploma or Masters, or a PhD by research. Search for postgraduate courses in speech and language therapy .

Career prospects

First posts are often within the NHS and involve working from one of several locations, such as health centres, hospital clinics or special schools. In your first year of practice you'll have a general caseload and will normally work with both adults and children.

Many qualified SLTs choose to specialise in a particular disorder such as:

• acquired conditions, for example stroke or brain injuries
• cleft lip and palate
• developmental language disorder
• head, neck or throat cancer
• hearing impairment
• neurodegenerative disorders
• stammering.

You can also specialise in a particular client group, although it's possible to move between groups.

Senior therapist positions exist in clinical specialisms, management, and research and teaching. A typical career path will often involve increased management responsibilities, which can include supervising students on placement and junior staff.

As the head of a local speech and therapy language service, you'll have responsibility for managing budgets, strategy and staff. There are a small number of opportunities to move into strategic management positions across different therapies.

Self-employment is another option for experienced SLTs and support for therapists working in independent practice is provided by ASLTIP.

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A Guide to Postgraduate Speech and Language Therapy

27 th September 2019

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Speech and Language therapy is a rewarding and fulfilling career and popular at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, therefore the application process can be competitive. As with similar health pathways, tuition in most cases is paid for by the NHS and there are a set number of places at each institution. If you did not study a pre-registration course accredited by the HCPC (Health Care and Professionals Council) then you need to do a pre-registration, accelerated course in Speech and Language Therapy to practice as a Speech therapist.

What do speech therapists do?

Speech and language therapists (SLT) assess and treat speech, language and communication problems in people of all ages to help them better communicate. They'll also work with people who have eating and swallowing problems.

They work with people of all ages, who may have other health problems that affect their speech, or may be recovering from an accident or stroke.

Career Progression

When qualified and registered with the HCPC, the first year of work is normally spent under supervision, in order to become a full member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. This is usually a post in the NHS, which often involves working from health centres, hospital clinics and special schools. Many qualified Speech and Language therapists decide to specialise in a particular patient group or disorder, but others move around. Senior positions are in clinical specialisms, management, research and teaching..

Self-employment is an increasingly growing career path; the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)  provides support for therapists in this area.

Speech and language therapy jobs in the NHS are normally covered by the  Agenda for Change Pay Rates , but individual NHS trusts have their own terms and conditions. Speech and language therapists usually have a starting salary of £21,176 (Band 5), rising to £27,625. Other employers, like charities and local education authorities, offer similar pay. Specialist speech and language therapists (Band 6) earn £25,528 - £34,189. Advanced speech and language therapists (Band 7) can earn £30,460 - £40,157. Full-time NHS speech and language therapists work 37.5 hours a week. Hours are typically 9am to 5pm with the possibility of some extra hours as and when required.

>See all speech and language therapy courses

Interview with Jane Stokes, programme leader on the Speech and Language therapy pre-registration course run jointly by the University of Greenwich and Canterbury Christ Church.

The application process for our programme is competitive - we routinely get 200 applications for 28 places, so a ratio of about 7 to 1. This is similar to the ratio nationally which is about 8 to 1.

How can applicants improve their chances of getting a place on the course?

To improve their chances of being accepted, applicants should obtain as much information about speech and language therapy by shadowing therapists working, by gaining experience in health, education or social care settings generally, by attending open days at the university, or by finding out about the profession through reading.

On this programme, the typical student has already worked either paid or in a voluntary capacity in a health, education or social care setting. They have had some personal or professional experience of people with communication difficulties and have a commitment to developing their skills in interacting and communicating with people who have difficulties. The typical student has a first degree in a related subject - linguistics, psychology, biological sciences, or Early Years, although we do accept students who have other degrees as long as they have relevant experience.

What are the main strengths of the course?

The main strength of the course is that it has a strong practice focus, and is founded on the principle that it provides the workforce with effective, autonomous and safe practitioners. We encourage personal development as a feature of the programme and introduce the students to people with communication disorders early on in the programme so that they can understand the impact of communication difficulty on daily life. There is also a strong emphasis on self directed learning. The student group is diverse and we welcome the contributions that experienced people bring to their studies.

The course is intensive, as it covers in two years, what an undergraduate will cover in four years. We ask students to consider the course as full time, not to expect to be able to do much paid work during the two years, and therefore the best way to prepare for the course is to ensure that they have thought through the financial implications. There are no fees to pay and students can apply for a means tested bursary.

>See further details on the Greenwich and Canterbury course

Interview with Paul Turner, Senior Lecturer in Audiology and Programme Manager in the Division of Language and Communication Science at City University , London.

Ratio of applicants to places?

8 or 9 applicants per place

What can people do to improve their chance of being accepted?

Undertake some relevant work experience and reflect on what they have learned in their application to demonstrate their understanding of the types of communication difficulties people can experience and what SLTs can do about them.

What does the application process consist of?

Paper applications are scored and moderated using a detailed scoring system. We will assess applications on the basis of previous academic record (i), two references (ii), a written personal statement (iii) and a written second statement answering our additional questions (see our site  for further details).

What’s the main strength of the city course?

City is a leading provider of speech and language therapy courses in the UK with an excellent reputation.  We train more SLTs every year than any other UK university and our courses have a focus on developing clinical skills. Our graduates have achieved distinction in all areas of the profession, including as clinical experts, senior managers of services and internationally recognised research leaders.

How intense is the course? How can students prepare for this?

Generally students have four full days per week (three at University and one on placement). Students can prepare by studying our pre-course reading list and getting sufficient suitable experience so that they are sure that Speech and Language Therapy is the right career choice for them.

What is the typical pathway of a graduate?

Following successful completion of the course they register with the Health and Care Professions Council and move to a Band 5 Therapy job for a probationary year under the supervision of a senior therapist. Career progression can be in clinical specialisation, management, research or education.

Has the profession changed in recent years?

 If yes, how have courses and students adapted? There is increasing pressure on clinicians to demonstrate evidence-based practice. There has also been growing recognition that the patient’s/ user’s perspective on health services is paramount.  Both are priorities for the course. Our expert academics are leaders in the field of speech and language therapy and renowned worldwide for their teaching and research and we employ SLT users and carers as part of the teaching for professional studies.

>Search all Speech Therapy courses

- It’s important to be sure it is for you and prove you have shown an interest through work experience.

- Competition is tough, so you may need to spend more time volunteering or working in related sectors to stand a chance at gaining entry, you might have to apply more than once and perhaps to a centre located in a different part of the country.

MSc Courses

For registered therapists wishing to further their knowledge or pursue an area of expertise there are also MSc and PhD courses available at UK universities, covering various areas, some examples include: Speech Technology Research, Speech Difficulties and Cleft Palate Research. 

We spoke to Professor Shula Chiat , from City University about the MSc Advanced Practice in Health and Social Care (Speech, Language and Communication)

Roughly one applicant per place, but not all applicants are suitable, so our applicants do not exceed our places.

This programme is not competitive. We don’t reach our target numbers because the field of speech and language therapy is small, and not that many clinicians want to undertake postgraduate study; the number of non-clinical applicants (also eligible to take the course) is very small. Hence applicants who meet our entry criteria will be accepted. Applicants who do not meet our entry criteria may succeed if they undertake further preparation. For example, overseas applicants who do not meet the English language requirement need to take a further course in English; applicants who have a clinical qualification but do not show sufficient understanding of the programme and readiness for research-oriented studies might increase their chances of acceptance if they take a course preparing students for postgraduate study.

Completion of the application form, including personal statement; two references; and an interview conducted by Programme Director. The decision to offer a place can often be determined from the application. The interview serves as a further check that applicants have a good understanding of the programme they are applying for, and gives them an opportunity to discuss what they want from the programme, indicate their main interests and likely module choices, and ask further questions about the programme. For applicants whose first language is not English, it provides further evidence of English language skills to supplement their score on the English language test.

What’s the main strength of the City course?

The main strength is that it supports students to develop their knowledge, critical thinking, and analytical and research skills in their particular areas of interest. More specifically, it gives students the opportunity to:

- Learn about the latest theoretical and clinical developments in key areas of speech and language therapy through lectures, seminars and student-led workshops

- Collaborate with staff who are internationally recognised researchers in their field

- Gain a better understanding of speech, language and communication problems from the client's perspective

- Conduct a research project under expert supervision, building on the knowledge and skills gained.

This course is not very intense, with teaching supplemented by many hours of self-study. Full-time students attend taught courses on average two days a week through the Autumn and Spring terms. Each term is eleven weeks, with a break for reading week in the middle.  During the term they are expected to read extensively, prepare for group discussions and workshops in their modules, and they may have assignments in some. The main assignment for each module comes at the end of the term and can be completed in the vacation. Students have up to one year after completing the taught programme to complete the research dissertation required for the MSc qualification.

Most students are already clinically qualified, and the MSc will help them obtain higher grade and specialist posts. It also prepares them for undertaking research, and a small proportion of graduates go on to undertake MPhil/PhD studies and/or take up lecturing posts.

  Has the profession c hanged in recent years? If yes, how have courses and students adapted?

There is increasing pressure on clinicians to demonstrate evidence-based practice. There has also been growing recognition that the patient’s/ user’s perspective on health services is paramount.  Both are priorities for the course. Clinical and research methods modules  give students access to current evidence in specific clinical areas and disorders and develop their skills in evaluating and collecting evidence.  The programme offers one module (‘Identity, inclusion and living with disability’) that focuses on users’ perspectives and includes presentations by users; the importance of users’ experience is a strand in all other clinical modules.

A further change in the profession has been the result of cut-backs in NHS funding for continuing professional development, including payment of MSc fees and time off to undertake an MSc. This has reduced the number of UK clinicians on the course. At the same time, the number of non-UK students has grown, with students who have completed a BSc degree in their home country wishing to obtain a Masters-level qualification.

Useful Links

-  HCPC (Health Care and Professions council)

-  Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists

-  NHS (funding)

-   S tamma

-  ICAN (Charity supporting speech, language and communication development in children)

>Search all Speech Therapy Courses

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Related courses

Msc speech and language therapy (pre-registration), manchester metropolitan university, speech and language therapy msc, city, university of london, university of essex, language pathology msc, newcastle university, phd/ mphil speech & language therapy, university of strathclyde, your next steps.

SPEECH THERAPY INTERACTIVE

WORK EXPERIENCE

At Speech Therapy Interactive, we take pride in our commitment in providing a client-centred approach, improving our clients quality of life and psychological wellbeing.

We are a practice that is interested in equality, diversity, inclusion and creating a better lives for all. We want to do this by educating and raising awareness re: the role of SLT, as research shows that one of the barriers to growth of the profession is that many people simply do not know about it. We want to grow our profession by supporting the development and learning of future clinicians. We do this by working with speech and language therapy students and offering work experience.

Work experience programme

We are currently offering a virtual work experience programme on the 8 th August 2022 which will be held via Zoom from 9-3pm.

The workshop will look at:  Who is a Speech and Language Therapist?  What Speech and Language Therapist’s actually do?  How to pursue a career in Speech and Language Therapy?  A day in the life of an Adult Speech and Language Therapist (Communication disorder/Dysphagia and the Role of SLT)  Assessment and management for patients with communication and swallowing difficulties Cost: £55 (£45 Early Bird Offer ends 5.8.22 ) When: 8 th August 2022 ( please contact us)

Please contact [email protected] to find out more or to book your place.

Sarah Buckley Therapies Ltd

Tailor-made speech and language therapy provision in southeast London

Work Experience

We are an independent speech and language therapy practice interested in driving forward our profession by supporting future clinicians. We do this by working with speech and language therapy students and offering a work experience programme.

Work experience programme 

We are currently offering a virtual work experience programme which will be held via Zoom. 

The workshops look at:

• Who Speech and Language Therapists work with
• What Speech and Language Therapist actually do
• A day in the life of a Speech and Language Therapist
• What are universities looking for

£50 (discounted to £35 for students)  

• Friday 24 November 2023
• Friday 22 March 2024
• Friday 28 June 2024

between 1pm and 4pm .

Please contact  [email protected]  for a booking form. 

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Off the Beaten Trail: the Moscow Metro

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• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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