Speech and language therapist
Level 6 · DegreeHealth and science 4 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 6 integrated degree apprenticeship trains speech and language therapists to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing difficulties across all age groups. Apprentices qualify to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), working in NHS trusts, schools, or community settings. It can lead to specialist clinical roles, research, or leadership positions in speech and language therapy.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Anatomy and physiology of speech, language, and swallowing
Assessment and diagnosis of communication disorders
Evidence-based intervention approaches for a range of conditions
Working with children with language and literacy difficulties
Supporting adults with acquired neurological conditions such as stroke
Dysphagia assessment and safe management of swallowing difficulties
Professional and ethical practice under HCPC and RCSLT standards
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out formal and informal assessments of communication
Plan and deliver tailored speech and language therapy programmes
Work with children in schools and early years settings
Support adults recovering from stroke or neurological conditions
Assess swallowing safety and recommend appropriate diets
Collaborate with teachers, nurses, and occupational therapists
Write clinical reports and maintain accurate patient records
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 6 (Degree) - roughly Bachelor’s-degree level. Usually needs A-levels or a Level 3 qualification (employers set UCAS-point targets). You earn a full degree while you work - with no tuition fees to pay.
What’s next: Leads into professional roles, sometimes with a Level 7 (Master’s) apprenticeship after.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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