We’re proud to announced our Speech Pathology New Graduate Program!

It’s a program for new speechies looking for structured support, supervision, and professional development as they transition from uni into professional practice. We remember what it was like in our first year out of uni, and we have developed this program to make that experience less scary (and even fun!)

To find out more about our program, please contact: Brooke Skinner (Director and Senior Speech Pathologist). Email brooke@elephantintheroom.net.au or text/call 0499 383 882.

Speech Pathology New Program Overview

  • Duration: 12 months (with structured milestones at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months).
  • Supervision: Graduates are allocated a Director and a Senior Speech Pathologist for clinical supervision.
  • Integration: The program builds on EITR’s values of Inclusion, Problem Solving, Communication, and
    Teamwork.
  • Outcome: To develop clinical competence, confidence, and independence while ensuring quality service provision for clients.

By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Independently manage a full caseload across diverse client needs.
  • Apply evidence-based interventions aligned with family-centred practice.
  • Demonstrate strong teamwork and communication across disciplines.
  • Contribute to community inclusion projects.
  • Engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional growth.

Key Program Elements

Orientation & Induction (Weeks 1–4)

  • Immediate Setup: Access to email, phone, laptop, Xero Me payroll, Salesforce, Jotform, Lumary systems.
  • Welcome & Culture: Introduction to EITR mission, values, and company culture.
  •  Workplace Familiarisation: Building tour, alarm codes, WHS procedures, shadowing schedule.
  • Initial Caseload: 2–5 clients allocated based on confidence.
  • Training Modules: Orientation to DSC training modules, NDIS compliance, AAC systems, early intervention frameworks.

Clinical Practice Development (Months 1–3)

  • Weekly supervision meetings to reflect on practice and casework.
  • Gradual increase in billable hours, aiming for 2+ billables per day by Week 3.
  • 50% caseload allocation by end of Month 1.
  • Opportunities to co-facilitate therapy sessions with senior staff.
  • Training on evidence-based assessment and intervention tools (e.g., AAC, early childhood intervention, family-centred practice).

Consolidation & Autonomy (Months 6–12)

  • Caseload at 100% capacity with an average of 5 billables per day.
  • Increased responsibility in supervising therapy assistants and supporting families.
  • Participation in advanced workshops (feeding, swallowing, complex communication needs).
  • Development of leadership skills: mentoring students or shadowing supervisors in management tasks.
  • Regular performance reviews to track progression towards independent practice.

Support Structures for New Speechies

  • Supervision: Weekly (Months 1–3), fortnightly (Months 3–6), monthly (Months 6–12).
  • Peer Learning: Attendance at weekly round-table meetings.
  • Professional Development: Structured CPD plan co-designed with supervisors.
  • Wellbeing Support: Flexible hours, work/life balance initiatives, and access to EITR’s supportive team culture.