Principal Therapist - (Speech and Language Therapist)
| Posting date: | 25 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Part time |
| Closing date: | 27 March 2026 |
| Location: | London, W3 8RR |
| Company: | National Autistic Society |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 1466491936 |
Summary
To protect our autistic pupils and young adults within the National Autistic Society, all employees will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks which will include additional references and criminal background checks.
Join Us as a Principal Therapist – Speech and Language Therapist
At the National Autistic Society, we offer many services to support autistic children and young people. We work to improve education, care, and experiences so they can reach their full potential.
About the School
Sybil Elgar is an outstanding specialist school for autistic children and young people aged 4 ½ to 22 years old. We have over 50 years experience in providing a holistic and personalised education within a caring and safe environment. Our creative approach, and focus on independent life skills help every autistic child to learn and develop.
About the Role
The Principal Therapist will hold accountability for therapy outcomes in our school. This role is jointly responsible for ensuring pupils in our school receive high quality, sector leading education which incorporates a truly transdisciplinary approach. The role will involve reporting detailed governance information to the Head of Therapy and supporting school senior leadership teams in making strategic, informed decisions.
What You’ll Do
- Plan and implement effective therapeutic intervention within team budgets
- Provide strategic leadership and management within the therapy team
- Oversee assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic planning
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a Speech & Language Therapist who:
- Is HCPC registered and a member of the RCSLT
- Has experience (or a strong interest) in working with autistic children and young people
- Is committed to neuro-affirming, strengths-based, and evidence-informed practice
Click here for the Job Description
This role is a permanent contract (35 hours per week) with 12 weeks paid holiday a year, which must be taken within the existing school holidays for your school. This is to ensure our pupils receive the continuous support they require while at school.
What we can offer you
- Pension – Auto-enrolled pension scheme.
- Training – Great induction and training, including autism training.
- Discounts – Online staff discount scheme for shopping, cycling, tech, and more (e.g., Asda, Tesco, Nike, Apple).
- Healthcare – Cash plan for permanent staff.
- Life Assurance – 2x your base salary.
- Flexible Benefits – Options like private health, dental insurance, holiday trading, enhanced pension.
- Support – 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme and counselling.
- Mindfulness – Free Headspace app for you and up to 3 family/friends.
- Blue Light Card – Eligibility for discounts.
About our application process
When you write your supporting statement:
- Look at the job description and person specification.
- Tell us how your skills and experience match the role.
- Give examples if you can.
For more information about this job please contact Paula Walker, Head of Therapy, at Paula.Walker@nas.org.uk
Applications for this job are sought from anyone who is suitably qualified and experienced for the role but particularly welcome from autistic people
The National Autistic Society is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and as such expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks.
We are an equal opportunities employer and part of the Disability Confident Employer scheme.
Please click here to view the safeguarding policy and please click here to view the policy and procedure for employment of ex-offenders.
Important Information
Agencies need not apply.
Please note the National Autistic Society are unable to provide sponsorship for Visas.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme