My experience of the RCSLT student leadership programme

Newly qualified SLT Nkechi Obikudu reflects on her experience of taking part in the RCSLT student leadership programme, sharing her key insights from the placement, how it has helped her as she starts her SLT career, and advice for future applicants.  

In February 2026, I had the privilege of completing a two-week leadership placement at the RCSLT alongside three fellow students. Our placement focused on equity, diversity and belonging (EDB), not as a theoretical abstract ideal, but as a lived organisational commitment embedded across leadership, policy and practice. 

Throughout the two weeks we took part in sessions with numerous RCSLT staff, including CEO Steve Jamieson and Chair of the Board of Trustees, Irma Donaldson, exploring leadership as a service, and gaining insight into how EDB is embedded in policy, communication, governance and strategy within the RCSLT. We were also introduced to the principles of positive coaching, a session I found to be very transformative. 

What I took from the placement

Looking back on the placement several months later, I think its impact has become even clearer. At the time, I was focused on absorbing as much as possible from the people, conversations and experiences around me. Having now completed my studies, I can see how much the placement contributed to my confidence and how I see myself entering the profession. 

The RCSLT placement gave me an opportunity to look beyond individual clinical practice and to understand the wider profession I was preparing to enter.

One of the biggest things I took away was a broader understanding of what it means to be an SLT. Throughout our training, much of our attention is understandably focused on developing our clinical knowledge and competence. 

Perhaps most importantly, the placement challenged my previous assumptions about leadership. I came away understanding that I do not have to wait until I am senior, experienced or in a management position before I can demonstrate leadership. Leadership can begin with asking thoughtful questions, advocating for others, reflecting on my own practice, contributing ideas, and having the courage to speak when something could be better. As I completed my studies and prepared to transition from student to qualified practitioner, this became increasingly relevant. Rather than entering the profession focusing primarily on what I still don’t know, I can recognise the strengths I already bring while remaining open to learning and development. 

Why should SLT students consider applying?

The placement gives students access to parts of the profession that we may hear about during our studies but may not always get to see first-hand. Sitting in conversations with people working across policy, communications, governance, public affairs and EDB helped me understand how decisions are made and how the RCSLT works to influence the wider landscape in which our profession operates. 

What I found was an environment in which we were genuinely welcomed as students. We were not simply there to observe from the sidelines. We were encouraged to ask questions, reflect, contribute and engage with people we met. 

You do not need to see yourself as a ‘leader’ before applying. In fact, I think that is one of the reasons to apply. The placement expands your understanding of leadership and helps you identify the ways you may already be demonstrating it. For students who are curious about the profession beyond clinical practice, interested in advocacy, or simply want to develop their confidence and professional identity, there is a great deal to gain from the experience. 

Despite the breadth of roles and levels of seniority represented across the two weeks, the placement felt accessible. The openness with which people shared their professional journeys, perspectives and even some challenges associated with leadership made the experience feel authentic rather than just an introduction to organisational structures. 

Advice for future placement students 

My advice to prospective students would be to approach the placement with curiosity. Ask questions, including the questions you think might be too simple. Listen to how different people describe leadership and pay attention not only to what they say but to how they lead. 

I would also encourage students to reflect as they go. There is a lot to take in over two weeks and some of the most valuable learning may not become obvious until afterwards. My own experience is evidence of that. With the benefit of time, and having now completed my studies, I can see connections between the placement and my developing professional identity that I could not fully appreciate while I was on the placement. 

The placement was more than a two-week placement, it was an invitation to reimagine what leadership can look like in the SLT profession – compassionate, courageous, and committed to belonging.  

Finally, make the most of the access the placement provides. Speak to people, be interested in their journeys, and allow yourself to think beyond your first job or your first clinical role. The placement showed me that an SLT career can develop in many directions and that contributing to the profession can take many forms. 

I began the placement wanting to learn about leadership at the RCSLT. I left with something more personal – a greater confidence that leadership is something I can participate in too. As I move from student to qualified SLT, that may be one of the most valuable lessons I take with me. 

The next RCSLT student leadership placement is now open for applications until Monday 28 September, 9am. Find out more about the programme and how to apply.