At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide specialist occupational therapy to children with complex needs in a supportive school environment.
- Company: Join a fast-growing independent provider of specialist education rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
- Benefits: Earn £35-£40 per hour, enjoy free healthcare, and benefit from an excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Fixed term contract for one academic year, working 36 hours per week during term time.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a stunning school with great facilities.
- Qualifications: Must be HCPC registered with experience in paediatrics and familiarity with complex needs.
The predicted salary is between 49000 - 56000 £ per year.
Specialist Occupational Therapist
SEN School – Ages 3 to 19
£35 - £40/HR (equivalent to £49,000 to £56,000)
Fixed Term Contract (1 Academic Year) | Term-Time only
Brent, Northwest London
Are you an OT familiar with paediatrics?
Are you wishing to avoid the public sector’s bureaucracy?
Are you looking to join an exciting and growing independent provider?
Then this may be the opportunity for you!
Overview:
Compass Associates is pleased to be collaborating with a fast-growing provider of Specialist Education in the UK, catering to children from ages 3, right up to 19. The range of backgrounds covered include profound and multiple learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder and complex needs.
They are seeking Occupational Therapists, with a range of experience, to join the therapy team, at their large SEN school; rated Outstanding by Ofsted. You will be fully supported by the Head of Therapy and the Lead for Therapy and Wellbeing, as well as the Headteacher. Day to day, you can expect to work alongside the universal therapy offering, with occasional higher priority 1:1 therapy.
You will be joining a stable multidisciplinary team of professionals including Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Physiotherapists and Therapy Assistants, all of whom are dedicated to working towards positive outcomes for every pupil.
The school you will be joining is simply breathtaking, with a gym, swimming pool, sensory resource base and extensive outdoor learning areas. In order to help the school provide specialised and evidence-based treatment that are proven to help support the children, we are working in partnership to headhunt for Occupational Therapists.
Location:
This SEN school is located in the London Borough of Brent and is commutable from Luton, St. Albans, Watford, Enfield, Ilford, Kensington, Hayes, High Wycombe, Rickmansworth and other surrounding towns and villages.
Criteria:
- HCPC Registered Occupational Therapist
- Experience working in paediatrics
- Familiarity with complex needs and associated medical equipment
Shift Pattern:
The contract is for a Fixed Term of one academic year. During this time, you will work 36 hours per week, term-time only (39 weeks).
Interview Process:
This will be a one-stage, competency-based interview, held in person, and carried out with a panel including the company Lead for Therapy and Wellbeing.
Salary and Benefits:
This Occupational Therapy position pays between £35 and £40 per hour, which equates to £49,000 to £56,000 across the entire school year, and includes an industry-leading benefit package as follows:
Excellent pension scheme (matched contributions)
Free private healthcare
School holidays
Career development & professional training
Contact Details:
To apply, or for more information and an informal confidential discussion please contact Lijani Cherry at 02394 211 143 or email lcherry@compassltd.co.uk.
Compass Recruitment Solutions Ltd is acting as a Recruitment Consultancy for this permanent vacancy; we offer £200 John Lewis vouchers for each successful recommendation.
Locations
Occupational Therapist - SEN School - Fixed Term Contract in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: Compass Associates
Join a dynamic and supportive team at a leading independent SEN school in Brent, where your expertise as an Occupational Therapist will directly contribute to the well-being and development of children with complex needs. Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent pension scheme, free private healthcare, and ample opportunities for professional growth within a nurturing environment that prioritises positive outcomes for every pupil. With state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative work culture, this role offers a fulfilling career path away from public sector constraints.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist - SEN School - Fixed Term Contract in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
We all know that networking in the therapy and counselling field can lead to great opportunities. Look out for local mental health awareness events, workshops, or support groups. These are perfect spots to meet potential employers and other professionals who might help open doors for you.
✨Leverage Online Therapy Platforms
Many temporary counselling roles pop up on platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace. Make sure your profile is top-notch so when clients or employers are browsing, you'll stand out. Plus, showing engagement in this space can really elevate your visibility!
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're currently studying or recently graduated, don’t ignore your university's career services. They often have great connections to temporary roles in therapy that aren't advertised widely. Plus, they can help you prepare for those all-important interviews!
✨Check Out Local Agencies and Consultancies
Temporary roles in therapy often get filled through agencies that specialise in healthcare staffing. Make a list of local counselling agencies and reach out – a simple email expressing your interest can go a long way. Remember, most agencies appreciate candidates who proactively seek out opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist - SEN School - Fixed Term Contract in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Experience:When applying for a temporary role in therapy or counselling, we need to see your practical experience front and centre. Include details of any placement experiences, internships, or voluntary work in your CV. Make sure to mention specific techniques or therapies you’re familiar with—this shows your readiness to jump in and make an impact!
Showcase Your Approach:In your cover letter, take a moment to explain your therapeutic approach and what methodologies you’re passionate about. This is your chance to connect your personal style with the values of Compass Associates. Temporary roles often require a quick adjustment; helping them understand your philosophy will assure them you're a good fit!
Be Flexible and Open-Ended:Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your flexibility in your application. Highlight that you're eager to take on varying responsibilities or adapt your style to different clients’ needs. It's a huge plus for potential employers who want someone who can slide effortlessly into their team.
Certifications Matter!:Don’t forget to include any relevant certifications or trainings in your application documents. Specific qualifications like a Diploma in Counselling or any accredited workshops/additional training can set you apart. Ensure these are listed clearly in your CV, as they illustrate your commitment to your professional development and the field itself.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Associates
✨Show Your Empathy Skills
In the therapy and counselling field, showcasing your empathy and interpersonal skills is crucial. Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated this, whether in volunteer work, internships, or even personal scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some real-world scenario questions where you might need to outline how you'd handle specific client situations. Practise articulating your thought process and the interventions you would consider using, reflecting your understanding of various therapeutic approaches.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since you're aiming for a temporary role, be prepared to discuss your adaptability. Temporary positions often require quickly building rapport and adjusting to different client needs, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated changes or challenges in a work environment.
✨Prepare Your Personal Philosophy
Having a clear understanding of your therapeutic philosophy can set you apart. Be ready to share how your values and approach align with those of Compass Associates and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.
