The RCSLT Professional Development Framework (PDF) is a UK wide resource that has been co-created by and for speech and language therapists. It was developed with funding support from Health Education England as part of a wider workforce reform programme.

The RCSLT Professional Development Framework provides a structure by which existing skills and experience are recognised, and learning and professional development needs are identified, at all career levels, across all settings.

One of the most pioneering aspects of the framework is that it positions practitioner wellbeing as a business imperative, placing it front and centre alongside the other core components of equality and inclusion, co-production, impact, and sustainability.

Embedded in the framework are the key principles of continuing professional development and lifelong learning, keeping it relevant, appropriate for its users and beneficial for the profession and those impacted by it.

The RCSLT Professional Development Framework supports all practitioners and managers to identify existing knowledge and skills and areas for future learning and development. It articulates the five core components (practitioner wellbeing, impact, inclusion and diversity, sustainability, co-production) and four domains of practice (professional practice; facilitation of learning; evidence, research and innovation; and leadership and management) for learning and professional development.

The framework provides a profession-specific resource to support career conversations, including at any transition point e.g. newly qualified practitioner. It also helps you think about the transferable knowledge and skills you bring from previous and current paid roles, voluntary roles, and life experiences, including as an experienced therapist as you advance your career. It can be used in the processes that support professional development including but not limited to:

  • Appraisals / individual performance reviews
  • Supervision (one-to-one, group and peer), mentoring or career coaching
  • Preceptorship for newly qualified practitioners
  • Return to practice
  • Personal statements for job applications including promotions within and beyond the profession
  • Articulating advanced and expert level (transferable) knowledge and skills for career progression that transcends professional boundaries e.g. at the senior management and executive level
  • Preparation for the HCPC audit
  • Moving sectors e.g. into a diverse role, academia, or a leadership role
  • Developing a portfolio career
  • Active retirement planning (Sainty, 2018)

Download the framework (PDF)

You can also read more about how the framework was developed on the project page and help us spread the word on social media with #RCSLTProfDev.