At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a specialist OT service for children with disabilities and coordinate therapy programmes.
- Company: Join the NHS and make a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Impact young lives while working in a supportive, multidisciplinary team.
- Qualifications: Recognised OT degree, HCPC licence, and experience with complex needs.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and learning.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 53000 £ per year.
Job Overview
Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist – NHS AfC Band 7, Permanent, Full time 37.5 hours per week. Contract at Alexandra Avenue Health & Social Care Centre, Harrow. Salary £53,751 - £60,651 per annum (HCA/HCAS pro‑rata for part‑time). Closing 10/02/2026 23:59.
Responsibilities
- Lead a highly specialist paediatric OT service for children and young people aged 11‑19 with physical disabilities, profound learning difficulties and multiple needs.
- Coordinate and deliver therapy programmes in mainstream and specialist schools, including prescription of specialist seating, moving and handling equipment.
- Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team (PT, SLT, teachers, social services) and provide clinical education to OT students, OTAs and junior staff.
- Manage own caseload, travelling between schools and supporting children within the mainstream setting.
- Advise on manual handling risk assessment and access to specialist equipment in school environments.
- Provide open, effective communication with children, parents/carers and the multi‑disciplinary team, including written information and training packages.
- Lead specialist assessment and differential diagnosis of children with complex presentations and deliver highly specialist treatment programmes in school and special school provision.
Qualifications
- Recognised Occupational Therapy Degree and HCPC licence to practice.
- Member of the College of Occupational Therapists and the CYPF (RCOT) specialist section.
- Advanced training up to Masters level equivalent in paediatric OT, including child development, sensory integration modules.
- Evidence of CPD portfolio including specialist short courses relevant to children with special needs and disability.
- Experience of working with school‑aged children with complex needs, physical and learning disabilities, perceptual‑motor disorders and neuro‑developmental disorders.
- Knowledge of the National Curriculum, foundation stage and specialist aids, equipment and seating systems, including assistive technology.
- Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills; ability to prioritise workload and work in an unpredictable environment.
Employment Conditions
- Flexible working options, including bank assignments.
- NHS electronic staff records and national probationary period of 13 weeks.
- Vaccination encouraged.
- Applicants requiring sponsorship will be considered.
- Applications should be submitted as soon as possible.
Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist in Harrow employer: CNWL
Contact Detail:
CNWL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist in Harrow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the healthcare field, especially those who work with children and young people. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to paediatric occupational therapy. Think about your experiences with complex needs and how you’ve collaborated with multidisciplinary teams. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for working with children! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've made a difference in their lives. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist in Harrow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Highly Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist role. Highlight your relevant experience with children and young people, especially those with physical disabilities and learning difficulties. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about paediatric occupational therapy and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to highlight your qualifications, especially your recognised Occupational Therapy Degree and any advanced training you've completed. We love seeing evidence of your CPD portfolio, so make sure to include that too!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at CNWL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your paediatric occupational therapy knowledge, especially around complex needs and the National Curriculum. Familiarise yourself with the latest practices in sensory integration and assistive technology, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've successfully managed a caseload or collaborated with multidisciplinary teams. Highlight any instances where you've led therapy programmes or provided clinical education to others, as this will demonstrate your leadership skills.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice how you would explain complex concepts to parents or colleagues who may not have a clinical background. Clear communication is key in this role, so be ready to showcase your interpersonal skills and ability to convey information effectively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the specific challenges faced in the role, and how success is measured. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the environment is the right fit for you.