Speech and language therapist : Training

On qualifying with an accredited undergraduate or postgraduate (if your first degree is not in speech and language therapy) degree, you are eligible to register with the Health Professions Council (HPC) . Registration with the HPC is essential in order to be able to practise as a speech and language therapist. The first year of work is spent under supervision as a newly qualified practitioner (NQP) in order to become a full member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) .

Speech and language therapists are responsible for their own personal development. In order to retain HPC registration, they must be able to show that they are maintaining and developing professional standards and, where appropriate, are up to date with the clinical procedures of the National Health Service (see NHS Careers ).

Continuing professional development (CPD) is encouraged through internal NHS courses and also through training run by regional and specific interest groups. Specific interest groups and the RCSLT advertise their courses and seminars in the RCSLT Bulletin. Typical training topics include:

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

Other CPD activities include observation of other therapists' practice, peer review of performance, case discussion and video analysis. Full details of the range of activities and resources available are on the RCSLT website. There are also opportunities to undertake a higher degree, such as a postgraduate certificate, diploma or Masters, or a PhD by research.