Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) are essential to helping children communicate confidently and access learning.
In both mainstream and SEN school settings, their work supports not only language development, but also social skills, emotional regulation, and educational progress.
At Heart Teaching, we value the work SLTs do every day to transform children’s experiences in school — and we’re here to help more professionals thrive in these roles.
What Does a Speech & Language Therapist Do in a School?
SLTs work with pupils who experience challenges with:
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Understanding spoken language
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Expressing themselves clearly
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Social communication and interaction
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Speech sounds, stammering, or voice difficulties
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Feeding and swallowing (in some complex SEN cases)
Their interventions help children develop the communication skills they need to learn, build relationships, and feel confident.
Key Areas of Support
🟣 Receptive Language
Helping pupils understand instructions, new vocabulary, and classroom content.
🔵 Expressive Language
Supporting children to build sentences, expand vocabulary, and share their thoughts.
🟢 Social Communication
Teaching turn-taking, eye contact, and conversation skills — especially important for children with autism.
🔴 Speech Sound Development
Working on articulation so pupils can be understood clearly by teachers and peers.
🟠 Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Introducing visual supports, signing, or tech-based tools when verbal communication is limited.
What’s a Typical Day Like for a SLT?
A school-based SLT might:
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Assess new pupils or update existing communication plans
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Deliver 1:1 or group sessions
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Model strategies for teaching staff and TAs
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Collaborate with SENCOs, parents, and external professionals
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Write reports for EHCPs or Annual Reviews
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Deliver staff training on communication-friendly classrooms
Every day is different, but the focus is always on unlocking each child’s potential through communication.
What Skills Do SLTs Need in Schools?
To work effectively in a school environment, SLTs should have:
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Strong interpersonal skills – to build trust with pupils and collaborate with staff
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Adaptability – to tailor strategies to a wide range of ages and needs
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Creativity – using games, visuals, and fun activities to support engagement
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Patience and persistence – communication growth takes time
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Understanding of SEN and education frameworks – especially EHCPs and classroom demands
Final Thoughts
Speech & Language Therapists are more than just communication specialists — they’re life-changers.
Their work supports emotional wellbeing, inclusion, and learning success from early years through to post-16 education.
At Heart Teaching, we proudly work with schools and therapists to ensure every child has a voice — and someone to help them find it.
