Lecturer in Speech and Language Therapy

Overview

The Faculty of Health, Sport and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Northampton is entering a phase of growth within the School of Health, beginning with the creation of a brand‑new BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy programme, with an integrated apprenticeship route, launching in September 2027. We are seeking an exceptional Senior Lecturer in Speech and Language Therapy to lead the development of this innovative new degree from concept, through validation, and into successful delivery.

This is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to shape a new programme that will influence the future of Speech and Language Therapy education and practice. As a registered Speech and Language Therapist with HCPC registration and RCSLT membership, you will bring your professional expertise, creative thinking and leadership to a School that values innovation, collaboration and academic excellence. Working closely with the school leadership team, you will design and co‑create an effective, future‑focused curriculum that reflects contemporary SLT practice across the lifespan and responds to emerging priorities across health, social care and education.

You will embed simulation‑based education, applied learning, interprofessional collaboration and authentic assessment throughout the programme, supported by networks, modern facilities and an engaged portfolio of established health courses. As Course Leader, you will play a pivotal part in:

• Setting the vision, identity and standards for the new programme
• Leading the programme to a successful validation process with the HCPC and RCSLT
• Ensuring high levels of academic quality, governance and professional alignment
• Driving continuous improvement and inspiring students to achieve at the highest level
• Networking and collaborating with external partners, seeking opportunities for knowledge exchange, research and CPD delivery

You will join a supportive and forward‑thinking School where creativity and academic growth are actively encouraged. With a committed leadership team alongside you, you will have both the autonomy and the backing to bring your ideas to life and shape an outstanding student experience. If you are passionate about Speech and Language Therapy education, excited by course design and leadership, and motivated by the chance to make a lasting impact on the profession, we would be delighted to hear from you.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.

• Creating an Inclusive Environment:
  Adopting a zero‑tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
• Supporting Students and Staff:
  Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence and ensuring academic and professional support.
• Tackling Inequalities:
  Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

• Disability Confident
• Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition

You will be an experienced, forward‑thinking Speech and Language Therapy educator or practitioner who is excited by the opportunity to build something new and meaningful. You will bring a clear vision for Speech and Language Therapy education at UON, underpinned by a commitment to high‑quality learning and an excellent understanding of emerging evidence, professional standards and future workforce needs across health, social care and education.

You will have experience in curriculum design, teaching or practice‑based education and you will be confident in leading academic development from concept through to implementation. Your ability to think creatively, work collaboratively and engage colleagues, partners…