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- Tasks: Lead a team of therapists to support pupils with autism in a specialist school.
- Company: Join a pioneering school in Maidenhead dedicated to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Occupational Therapist with relevant experience in special education.
- Other info: Located just 20 miles from London, this role offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 64000 £ per year.
Please see details of an exciting role for a permanent Occupational Therapist Lead based in Maidenhead, Berkshire.
We are looking for a Band 8a Occupational Therapist to work in a full-time role at a specialist autism school based in Maidenhead. Salary will be £57,000 - £64,000 depending on experience.
Working in an innovative educational setting dedicated to 130 pupils with complex needs associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders for ages 4-16 years. You will be working in a multi-disciplinary team made up of Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Art Therapists aligning them closely with the school’s objectives, ethos, and teaching practices.
The Therapies Lead will provide clinical and operational leadership for the therapies services alongside the Head of Therapies, i.e. Speech and Language Therapists (SaLT), Occupational Therapists (OT), Art Therapists (Music Therapists, Drama Therapists and Art Therapists) at Forest Bridge School for pupils with complex needs in association with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
The Therapies Lead will also be responsible for the development, optimisation and innovation of Therapy services and pathways to effectively influence and support the successful delivery of the school’s objectives and priorities in conjunction with the school’s vision, ethos and teaching and learning practices. The Therapies Lead will be a member of the school’s middle leadership team and have 1 day a week of leadership time. The Therapies Lead will spend the equivalent of 4 days a week supporting pupils within their discipline.
Working at this specialist autism school offers a unique and rewarding opportunity for professionals in the field of special education. Located in the charming town of Maidenhead, just 20 miles outside of London, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Since opening in 2015, the school has prided itself on its multi-disciplinary approach to learning, incorporating a carefully designed in-house curriculum.
We embrace each child’s unique journey through Applied Behaviour Analysis, guided by a profound respect for their individuality, strengths, and the distinct stages of their development. We believe in nurturing a child’s core self, allowing them to express who they are without the need to mask. Our approach is family centred and community oriented, creating a supportive environment that extends beyond our school walls. We delve deeply into understanding each child’s medical, mental health needs, and neurodiverse needs, ensuring our strategies are tailored specifically to them.
We operate on a foundation of transparency and mutual respect, valuing the dignity of every child. Our team works collaboratively, rejecting traditional hierarchies to foster personal connections and equal partnership. Our professionals embody empathy and adaptability, committed to learning from each child’s progress to continually refine our practice.
We are committed to professional development, collaborative work, and the well-being of both its staff and students. We provide dynamic, high-quality specialist training and professional development pathways for all staff, ensuring a listening, responsive, and supportive culture.
Our vision is to be a leading provider of education for children and young adults with autism, combining ABA, evidence-based therapy, and effective personalised curriculums to enable pupils to fulfil their potential, prepare for adulthood, and lead happy lives.
Please feel free to reach for more information at mark.manning@pulsejobs.com
Permanent Band 8a - Occupational Therapy Lead - Specialist Autism School employer: Acacium Group
Contact Detail:
Acacium Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Permanent Band 8a - Occupational Therapy Lead - Specialist Autism School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) as they are central to the role. Understanding how ABA therapies are implemented in educational settings will help you demonstrate your expertise and alignment with the school's ethos during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of occupational therapy and special education, particularly those who have experience working with children on the autism spectrum. Engaging with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the specific challenges and needs of pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Being able to discuss tailored strategies and interventions during your interview will showcase your commitment to providing effective support and your understanding of the unique environment at the school.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in a multi-disciplinary team setting. Highlighting your ability to collaborate with other therapists and educators will be crucial, as this role involves significant teamwork and operational leadership.
We think you need these skills to ace Permanent Band 8a - Occupational Therapy Lead - Specialist Autism School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Occupational Therapist Lead position. Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and the specific needs of pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in occupational therapy, particularly in educational settings or with children who have autism. Emphasise any leadership roles or multi-disciplinary teamwork you've been involved in.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for working with children with autism and your commitment to their development. Discuss how your values align with the school's mission and how you can contribute to their innovative approach.
Showcase Professional Development: Mention any relevant training or professional development you've undertaken, especially in ABA therapies or special education. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and adapting your practice to meet the needs of your students.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acacium Group
✨Understand the Role and Environment
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and the unique approach of the school. Research ABA therapies and how they are implemented in educational settings to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Band 8a Occupational Therapist Lead, you'll be part of the middle leadership team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you manage multi-disciplinary teams, and your approach to fostering collaboration among therapists.
✨Emphasise Empathy and Adaptability
Highlight your ability to connect with children and adapt your strategies based on their individual needs. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully tailored your approach to support diverse learners.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Demonstrate your interest in the role by preparing thoughtful questions about the school's vision, the team dynamics, and professional development opportunities. This shows that you are not only interested in the position but also in contributing to the school's objectives.
