Speech Language Therapist

Job Type: Permanent- Location: Napier, NZ**Help shape the future of Education**
- We work to _**_shape _**_an _**_education _**_system that delivers _**_equitable_**_ and _**_excellent outcomes_**

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our ākonga in our education system.

**About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga**

The purpose of the Speech Language Therapist is to provide effective, efficient, and equitable speech and language therapy services in accordance with the goals, objectives, and policies of the Ministry of Education.

As a Speech Language Therapist within Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga | the Ministry of Education you will:

- Work to understand the impact of the child's speech and language difficulties in the context of their home, school, and community.
- Work closely with parents, caregivers, teachers, and other specialists to help children and young people with the development of speech and language skills.
- Talk to the adults in a child's life to find out about a child or young person's overall development and behaviour so they can identify what their individual communication needs are.
- Provide peer supervision and make decisions in accordance with the Ministry's policies and delegations framework.

We also offer:

- Flexible working arrangements where everyone feels valued & supported.
- The ability to purchase extra days leave.
- A range of employee network groups.
- An inclusive environment that encourages your personal cultural competency journey.
- Development and learning, including mentorship programmes and internal secondments.
- Wellness initiatives to support your overall health and wellbeing.

**About you | Mōhou ake**

To be successful in the role, you will need:

- Experience in a complex organisation.
- Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
- A Bachelor's or Master's degree in speech-language therapy or an equivalent that meets the requirements of the New Zealand Speech-Language Therapists' Association.
- To be eligible to be a member of the New Zealand Speech-Language Therapists' Association
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You will be able to offer specialist knowledge of theory, research and practice related to:

- Typical and atypical child and human development.
- Speech-language therapy and practice.
- Early childhood development, learning and behaviour for typical and atypical children.
- Multi-lingual development and its impact on language development for children with and without communication difficulties.

You will offer broad knowledge of:

- Te Whāriki: Early Childhood Curriculum and Te Whāriki a te Kōhanga Reo, the New Zealand Curriculum and Te Marautanga Disability sector.
- Relevant legislation, policy and best practice.
- Relevant health and welfare entitlements and community services.
- The significance of identity, language and culture through all services and supports.

**About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake**

Learning Support is a critical part of the Te Mahau in the Ministry. We ensure that children and young people with additional learning needs are supported to achieve their full potential through education. Our Learning Support specialists work closely with families, whānau, caregivers, schools and early childhood educators in English and Māori medium settings and other agencies to help maximise learning outcomes and promote social inclusion.

Our specialists tell us they value:

- "The ability to make a positive difference in the lives of children, young people and their whānau and contribute to system wide change is a huge plus."
- "The Ministry offers a strong community of practice and the support of a large organisation, so I never feel isolated or alone."
- "I really value the ability to work closely with specialists from other disciplines. It enhances my own practice and thinking."

**Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?**

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

**Applications close Midnight - Friday 29 November 2024.**
- We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know_