Speech Therapy Student Review

In this placement I was a Speech Therapy student in year 2. During this placement I shadowed an S.L.T on their duties visiting schools and homes carrying out Speech Therapy intervention. I also prepared assessments for the sessions and made resources up to be used as part of the intervention.

I learnt a lot regarding the theory behind speech sound disorders in children and the intervention techniques used in cases like this. I also developed skills regarding the systems used in the NHS such as writing up case notes, developing resources and attending further professional development. I also feel like I developed my communication skills in regards to interacting with children.

I was given as much responsibility as appropriate for my skill level at that time. I would plan and run intervention sessions with children and write up notes to be uploaded onto the NHS system.

I received a lot of support and felt very well included in the placement. My practice educator gave me a lot of clinical and personal guidance and helped guide my learning.

It was very inclusive and all the staff ensured that the students were involved in conversation. The clinic was too small for all of the staff and students but we were never made to feel like a burden.

I enjoyed my placement last year and felt that it benefitted my professional development. However I didn't find it too challenging and felt that time was wasted due to the community aspect of the placement/ work. I also found it frustrating having clients that did not attend therapy and also struggled with finding motivation to work with children as I prefer working with an adult clientele.

Yes

Stay motivated and find passion in the things you find interest in. Try and keep a positive attitude and try and influence colleagues to be more positive if they find working in the NHS challenging. Stay on top of personal development and always keep up to date with the newest evidence based practise and research etc.