At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver high-quality occupational therapy for children with SEND.
- Company: Coombe House School, a supportive environment for special education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, enhanced pension, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to inclusive practice and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on young lives while working in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and HCPC registration required.
The predicted salary is between 48738 - 50908 £ per year.
Join our Therapy team and make a lasting difference Are you a passionate Occupational Therapist looking for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with SEND?Coombe House School is seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Occupational Therapist to lead and deliver a high-quality occupational therapy service within our specialist school.
This is an exciting opportunity to work as part of a supportive multidisciplinary team, helping pupils with autism, SEMH and associated needs develop the skills, independence and confidence they need to thrive.
Working within our values of Kindness, Belonging and Ambition, you will play a key role in ensuring that occupational therapy is embedded into everyday school life, supporting pupils to access learning, develop positive relationships and achieve their individual potential.
As our school-based Occupational Therapist, you will: Lead and further develop occupational therapy provision across the school.
Assess pupils' strengths, needs and barriers to participation, developing evidence-based interventions and support plans.
Support pupils to overcome barriers to learning, participation and independence.
Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, pastoral colleagues, families and external professionals to deliver consistent support.
Provide consultation, training and practical strategies to staff to embed therapeutic approaches within classrooms and across the wider school environment.
Contribute to EHCP outcomes, annual reviews and multidisciplinary planning.
Advise on sensory-friendly practice, accessibility and inclusive approaches across the school We would love to hear from you if you: Hold a recognised degree in Occupational Therapy.
Are registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Have experience working with children and young people with autism, SEMH, sensory needs and neurodiversity.
Are passionate about inclusive practice and enabling young people to achieve positive outcomes.
Enjoy building strong relationships with pupils, families and colleagues.
Are a reflective practitioner who values collaboration, creativity and continuous professional development.
Our school Coombe House School is an independent special school that provides education for pupils aged 5 to 19 with SEMH and ASD and associated difficulties, which represents the largest group of children and young people supported by an Education, Health, and Care Plan(EHCP)in Dorset and nationally.
The school uses a therapeutic approach to support pupils with their individual difficulties.
Everything the school does is based on the formation and maintenance of positive relationships and viewing all behaviour as communication.
Set within over 55 acres of beautiful grounds, our unique environment provides an exceptional setting for pupils and staff alike.
Actual
Salary: £45,053 to £47,059 per annum (term time plus 10 days)Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, term time plus 10 days.
Flexibility around working hours may be discussed
What Coombe House School can offer you
- Competitive salary.
- Pro-rated from 31 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, in line with the 41-week term-time contract (weeks added to and included in your salary).
- Enhanced Pension Scheme (10% employers' contribution).
- Continuous professional development and training
- Use of leisure facilities (gym and swimming pool), at specified times.
- Death in Service (3 x salary).
- Health Care Plan after probation period - claim back costs towards dental check-ups, eye tests, prescription charges and therapies.
- Highly supportive leadership team and working alongside a multi-disciplinary team of other SEN Specialists.
- Access to a free, confidential employee assistance programme.
- Wellbeing support, including qualified Mental Health First Aiders on staff body.
- A beautiful workplace set within extensive grounds.
Interviews will be held on Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 September 2026 This post involves working with children or vulnerable adults and/or having access to significant information about them and will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
We are committed to safeguarding and expect everyone who works in our school (and visitors to our school) to share this commitment.
We take all safeguarding and welfare concerns seriously and encourage our pupils to talk to us about any worries they may have.
We will always act in the best interests of the child.
The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist (School Based) in Shaftesbury
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist (School Based) in Shaftesbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Allscreens Nationwide Ltd:Take some time to research Allscreens Nationwide Ltd and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Allscreens Nationwide Ltd's values and approach.
