Speech & Language Therapy
At Drumbeat communication is at the core of the curriculum. Communication opportunities are at the centre of all learning activities throughout the school day. Emphasis is placed on the importance of engaging, fun and meaningful interactions and experiences.
The speech and language therapists work within the classroom promoting and embedding a total communication approach. This may involve the use of signing, symbols, objects, communication books, high tech AAC, drawing and writing as well as speech to support understanding and expressive communication. Speech and language therapist also help school staff to develop their own interaction skills to enable them to become supportive communication partners. Speech and language therapists and assistants employed by Lewisham and Greenwich NHS also form part of the Drumbeat speech therapy team.
Drumbeat’s communication curriculum is based on up to date research and evidence based practice. It is neurodiversity affirming and values all methods of communication and language acquisition. Speech and language therapy goals and interventions are integrated into the curriculum and individual pupil learning maps which means speech and language therapy is integrated seamlessly into classroom practice and pupils develop functional communication skills with a range of meaningful opportunities.
Hannah Robinson
Speech and Language Therapist
Hannah studied Speech and Language Therapy BSc (Hons) at the University of East Anglia. Whilst studying she also worked as an Applied Behaviour Analysis tutor with children with Autism. She qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist in 2008 and has worked in a range of clinics, mainstream and special schools. Hannah has been working at Drumbeat since it opened in 2012 and has set up the speech and language therapy service in school. She loves delivering creative attention autism sessions in the classroom and building relationships with pupils using intensive interaction. Hannah completed a Master’s Degree in Autism Studies at the University of Kent. As part of her studies her research focused on the questions teachers ask in the classroom. Hannah is also the Literacy Lead in school.
Raj studied Speech and Language Therapy (PGDip) at the City University London have previously studied English Language and Linguistics at Undergraduate Level. Raj has been working in the NHS since 2017 and has worked in a range of clinical settings including early year's clinics, mainstream schools, resource base provisions and special schools. Raj has a passion for language, communication, and supporting self-advocacy.
Joe is an NHS Therapy Assistant Practitioner who has worked in the service at Drumbeat for nearly three years. Prior to this role, he gained nearly ten years of experience working in schools and youth clubs, supporting children with special needs and their families. Over the past two years, Joe has been completing a Healthcare Assistant Practitioner course, which he has enjoyed as it allowed him to study and expand his knowledge. His current main area of work focuses on supporting students who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) as a means of communication.
Eli Smith
Eli joined Drumbeat in Autumn 2024 and works within the Downham site, supporting students across a range of learning environments. She delivers whole-class and small group interventions, with a focus on developing attention & listening skills, emotional regulation, and language & communication.
Eli is passionate about using the SCERTS framework to support pupils’ social and emotional well-being. She uses this approach to attune to the unique interests and developmental profile of students, promoting engagement, communication, and overall well-being in a neurodiversity-affirming manner.
In addition to her work with pupils, Eli contributes to staff training and professional development, helping to build a shared understanding of effective practice. She also supports the school’s coffee morning initiative, where she values building strong, collaborative relationships with parents and carers.