23 June 2025
The report calls for speech and language therapists to be embedded in every school and early years setting in Scotland
RCSLT Scotland has unveiled a new report that looks at the transformational role of speech and language therapists (SLTs) within education and how embedding speech and language therapists in schools and early years settings can lead to improved learning, wellbeing and future life chances of children in Scotland.
The report sets out how SLTs can support teachers, who are under increasing pressure from rising complexity in the classroom. By working alongside education staff, SLTs can reduce disruptive behaviour, help include children with additional needs and reduce workloads.
Utilising an experimental workforce model based on existing models of good practice and research, the report identifies the level of SLT resource needed to deliver improved outcomes through an integrated, education-based approach.
Key messages include:
- Embedding SLTs is a practical, evidence-based way to improve outcomes, reduce inequalities and support wellbeing.
- To fully implement regular SLT support across schools and early years settings, the children’s speech and language therapy workforce in Scotland will need to increase by 70%.
- A phased roll-out is achievable, beginning with an initial 35% increase in SLTs.
- This increase can be achieved by expanding speech and language therapy training opportunities and new entry routes in Scotland to meet projected demand.
- It will also be critical to secure long-term funding for sustainable, co-located speech and language therapy services in education.
Glenn Carter, Head of RCSLT Scotland, said: “We believe every school and nursery in Scotland should have access to a speech and language therapist. Communication is a fundamental skill that supports relationships, mental health, learning and future life outcomes. This is a positive solution to some of the challenges that Scotland’s children are currently facing. Let’s invest in their future.”
