The SLT Training Academy
A brand new online course for 2026
Start building an independent Speech and Language Therapy practice that works for you, your values, and the life you want to create.
Starting 5th February 2026
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Starting 5th February 2026 -
A live 8 week course for Speech & Language Therapists
who want the tools, structure, and support to set up an independent practice that works for them
Does any of this sound familiar?
You’re not alone — so many SLTs feel this way but don’t know where to start.
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You’re carrying a heavy caseload, moving from one assessment to the next with little time to deliver the therapy you know would help.
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Long hours and shifting priorities leave you with little flexibility - it’s hard to make work fit around the rest of your life.
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You want another way, but getting started feels really daunting - business structure, finance and tax sound like a minefield.
Now imagine if…
You had a clear, simple plan to start your independent practice - whether alongside your current role or as your next step.
If this feels familiar - you’re not alone
We’ve been where you are wondering how on earth to start an independent practice
This 8 week live course gives you the tools, structure, and support to take those first steps with confidence - helping you set up a practice you enjoy, without the overwhelm of figuring it all out alone.
What you'll get inside The SLT Training Academy:
8 Live weekly training sessions
Step-by-step modules covering everything from business basics to finding clients, finance, marketing, and beyond. No more going round in circles - you’ll know exactly what to do and when to do it.
Practical resources & templates
Checklists, trackers, and real examples you can use and implement easily. Save time and avoid mistakes - so that you can focus on growing your practice.
Q&A and group support
Dedicated time with Ruth & Emma to ask questions and get support as you move through the course. You’ll never feel like you’re doing this alone - you’ll have expert support every step of the way.
A supportive community of other SLTs
Connect with like-minded therapists who are on the same journey as you. Share ideas, encouragement, and wins - and feel part of a community that just “gets it.”
A proven step-by-step pathway
A clear framework designed from Ruth & Emma’s own experience of leaving the NHS and building successful practices. Replace any feelings of overwhelm with a simple plan that works - that will give you confidence to move forward.
Reigniting her passion
Meet Emma
Emma qualified in 2005 after completing a Masters in Language Pathology at Newcastle University.
After more than a decade in the NHS, across community clinics, schools, and specialist SEND settings, she realised the lack of flexibility and increasing pressures were draining the joy from her work.
In 2018, Emma stepped into independent practice, bringing with her not just her SLT expertise, but also her business experience from running a successful network marketing venture. Today she specialises in speech sound disorders, AAC, and SEND - and loves the freedom to build her practice around her family.
Emma felt she’d lost her passion for SLT - now she’s created a business around her family that she loves again.
Creating new possibilities
Meet Ruth
Ruth qualified in 2005 with a BSc (Hons) in Speech and Language Therapy from Ulster University. After 11 years in the NHS, she left to take up a part-time lecturer role before establishing her own practice in 2016, which has since grown into a thriving limited company.
Passionate about “thinking outside the box,” Ruth has combined clinical work with leadership roles, including Chair of ASLTIP (2019–2023) and current NI representative on the RCSLT Board of Trustees. She now provides training, supervision, and team leadership - and is passionate about helping other SLTs see what’s possible when they go independent.
When Ruth left the NHS, she was worried about losing security - but within a year she’d grown her own practice and started building a team.
Inside the Academy, we’ll guide you through all the essentials you need to start your independent practice, including:
1. Business Basics
Understanding sole trader vs limited company, registering with HMRC, insurance, contracts.
2. Finances Made Simple
Setting up systems for money, tax, and pricing your services with confidence.
3. Finding Clients
How to start with your first few clients and build a caseload you actually enjoy.
4. Marketing & Branding
Making your practice visible with simple, effective strategies.
5. Practical Tools
Checklists, templates, and resources to save time and reduce overwhelm.
6. Work-Life Balance
How to design your practice around your family, your energy, and the work you love most.
Join The SLT Training Academy
This isn’t just a course - it’s the starting point for a new chapter in your career
As a founding member, you’ll get full access to the live Academy, all resources, and direct support from Ruth & Emma — at a special beta price.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Academy runs over 8 weeks with one live session each week. All sessions are recorded, so you can catch up anytime if you can’t make it live.
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Not at all. This course is designed for SLTs who are completely new to private practice. We’ll guide you through every step, from business basics to finding your first clients.
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That’s absolutely fine - many SLTs begin building their private practice alongside NHS work. The Academy is designed to fit around your busy schedule and family life.
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Yes. Even if you’re not ready to leave straight away, the Academy will give you a clear plan and the confidence to know when the time is right.
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Don’t worry. You’ll have lifetime access to the recordings and resources, so you can work through everything at your own pace.