At STEPS Rehabilitation, we are dedicated to supporting the development of our interdisciplinary team, including those training through apprenticeships.
In this piece, Jess reflects on her apprenticeship journey so far, sharing her experiences of combining university study with clinical practice and working at STEPS Rehabilitation.
The Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) Integrated Degree Apprenticeship
Jess started the SLT apprenticeship in January 2024 and spends her time between Birmingham City University, STEPS, and various placements across an adult and paediatric client base.
The SLT apprenticeship enhances learners’ communication and clinical skills, which are further strengthened in the workplace. Jess reports that “working at such a unique rehabilitation facility has provided me with exposure to a wide array of conditions/presentations acquired through a broad range of injuries”. Jess also notes that completing her apprenticeship at STEPS has equipped her with “a greater awareness of the medico-legal system”.
As an SLT apprentice, Jess has a unique opportunity to apply theory to practice in assessing an individual’s speech, language, communication, and swallowing needs. Part of the apprenticeship involves collaboration with a STEPS-based mentor in the SLT team who provides support and advice throughout the apprenticeship and offers feedback to Jess’ university tutor.
Jess can ask questions and access support from the wider interdisciplinary therapy team, including psychologists, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. Jess notes that “collaborating with the interdisciplinary team has given me exposure to vast expertise and different clinical perspectives which enrich an individual's rehabilitation experience”.
Working as an SLT apprentice at STEPS has provided Jess with a rich learning experience, allowing her to gain holistic knowledge and skills through shadowing clinical assessments, attending IDT discussions, and clinical meetings. These experiences have allowed Jess to work through professional competencies whilst working with a complex client base who have experienced serious injuries/ neurological conditions
As a Speech and Language Therapy apprentice at STEPS, Jess also attends internal Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to strengthen her learning experience. Jess contributes to the STEPS training school and leads training on client-centred therapeutic mouthcare and the use of Augmentative and Alternative communication (AAC) to support clients and families both during their stay and upon discharge.
In line with the collaborative and family-first values of STEPS, Jess also works closely with clients’ families to provide advice and education about their injuries or conditions. Jess also involves family members in her interventions to best support a client’s rehabilitation journey.
Jess will complete the degree apprenticeship in December 2027.
