At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with OT needs in schools, providing innovative therapy and training.
- Company: Join Cognus Therapies, a dynamic team dedicated to improving lives in Sutton.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for growth and impact in local communities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new service that empowers young people and enhances educational experiences.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified occupational therapist with a passion for working with children.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
We are currently expanding the size of our therapies team by recruiting occupational therapists to support the rise in statutory occupational therapy provision and SEND Support services across the London Borough of Sutton. As part of the Government's SEND reform, we are developing a new and exciting Experts At Hand service launching in September 2026; this will be embedded into our therapies service.
Working within a multidisciplinary team of Occupational Therapists and Speech Therapists, the post holder will have the opportunity to work in local schools and colleges across the 4 years to 25 years age range or with a smaller age range within this. Advising and supporting a range of schools and settings with children and young people with Occupational Therapy Needs (OT Needs) including a possible cohort with ASD or PMLD to manage their caseload to ensure that intended outcomes are delivered within agreed service standards.
Raising awareness of the needs of and strategies available for children and young people with OT Needs. Deliver specialist paediatric occupational therapy within mainstream schools using the Experts at Hand model, focusing on early intervention, inclusion, and embedding practical strategies into everyday teaching and learning.
Provide on-demand consultation, advice, and training to education staff supporting children and young people based on functional need without requiring diagnosis or EHCP and working collaboratively with families and multi-agency partners. Build capacity and confidence within education settings through time-limited, needs-led support, combining clinical practice, coaching, and system-level input to improve outcomes and demonstrate impact aligned with local SEND priorities.
We are seeking enthusiastic occupational therapists to join our friendly and supportive team. Collaborative working is an important part of the role. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic team providing innovative therapy interventions following evidence-based practice and an embedded model of therapy in order to best support the pupils' needs.
Cognus Therapies are a thriving multidisciplinary team of occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, teachers, practitioners, and therapy assistants who support children and young people aged 4 - 25 years in mainstream schools, colleges, and specialist settings within the London Borough of Sutton and surrounding boroughs. Cognus Therapies is owned by the London Borough of Sutton and forms part of Cognus Limited who are the providers for special educational needs services within the borough.
Band 6 Paediatric Occupational Therapist (Education) employer: Cognus Limited
Cognus Therapies is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Band 6 Paediatric Occupational Therapists. With a focus on professional growth and development, employees benefit from working within a dynamic multidisciplinary team dedicated to innovative therapy interventions that directly impact the lives of children and young people in the London Borough of Sutton. The unique opportunity to engage with local schools and colleges, combined with the commitment to early intervention and inclusion, makes this role both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 6 Paediatric Occupational Therapist (Education)
✨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 Cognus Limited. 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 Cognus Limited.
We think you need these skills to ace Band 6 Paediatric Occupational Therapist (Education)
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 Cognus Limited:Take some time to research Cognus Limited 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 Cognus Limited
✨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 Cognus Limited's values and approach.
