Jennifer McElroy
Speech and Language Therapist
With over 20 years of experience and dual qualifications in speech and language therapy and primary teaching, Jennifer has a broad range of experience in supporting young people. Having worked extensively with children for many years in a range of different settings and as the mother of a young child, she prides herself in being able to quickly establish a rapport with children of all ages.
Jennifer graduated from University of Strathclyde in 2002 with a BSc in Speech & Language Pathology. This followed completion of an MA Honours in English Language & Literature at the University of Glasgow. She then expanded her skills by completing a PGDE in Primary Teaching in 2010 while continuing to develop her work as an independent speech and language therapist.
Jennifer has extensive experience working within the NHS, as well as in the education and private health sector, within the UK, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland. Her experience is predominantly with children. As well as supporting families and providing training for colleagues in education, Jennifer has also worked as a Practice Tutor managing placements and assessing student speech and language therapists within a multi-disciplinary team.
Jennifer has developed expertise in several clinical areas including language delays and disorders, speech sound and motor speech disorders and the use of AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) with children with physical disabilities.
Jennifer has worked as a primary teacher in the mainstream and additional support needs sector, most recently in a busy mainstream primary school in a diverse area of Glasgow. She is a trained nurture room teacher and as such, has developed an interest in child mental health and the impact of this on learning as well as on language and communication development specifically. Having been involved in the assessment process for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia), Jennifer is also very interested in the interaction between speech and language development and literacy acquisition.
At the Muir Practice, Jennifer will be following both her passions as a Speech and Language Therapist and a Primary teacher. Jennifer is a vital part of the multidisciplinary team for dyslexia assessments. Together with Eilidh Lanzani, they will offer comprehensive assessments for children aged 0–18, helping to clarify learning and support needs, including identifying specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia, as well as other general learning challenges.
What do you do to switch off from work?
I spend time with my young son, running, reading and keeping up with my guilty pleasure (the Real Housewives franchise).
Tell us something that none of your colleagues know about you?
I took leave of my senses and did a skydive from 12000 feet while living in New Zealand. I have also performed at the Edinburgh Festival as part of a community ballet group.
What would be your last supper?
Zuppa di Pesce (Italian seafood stew), chips, aioli and a large glass of Picpoul du pinet wine!
What did you want to be growing up?
A dancer or a doctor.