At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's occupational therapy interventions and promote independence in daily activities.
- Company: Join Eden Brown Synergy, a leader in Children's Occupational Therapy services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible working across various environments with a focus on equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Health, Social Care, or related fields.
Eden Brown Synergy is delighted to offer an exciting opportunity to join our team and play a key role in delivering high-quality Children's Occupational Therapy services.
Salary: Equivalent to NHS Agenda for Change Band 4 (£26,000 - £31,000 per annum equivalent, dependent on experience)
Service Area: Children's Services / Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) / Integrated Therapy Services
Reporting To: Senior Occupational Therapist / Occupational Therapy Team Lead
Location: Hybrid: Home based, community settings, schools and family homes.
Job Purpose: To support the delivery of high-quality occupational therapy interventions for children and young people with disabilities, developmental difficulties, sensory processing needs, and additional needs. Working under the direction of a registered Occupational Therapist, the postholder will support the triaging of referrals, provide information, advice and guidance to children, families, carers and professionals, implement therapy programmes, undertake delegated assessments, provide practical advice and equipment support, and contribute to promoting independence, participation, and wellbeing.
The role involves close partnership working with children, families, schools, social care practitioners, health professionals and wider multi-agency teams to help identify needs, prioritise support, provide timely information and guidance, and ensure children achieve positive outcomes in their daily activities, education, and community participation.
Key Responsibilities
- Occupational Therapy Support: Deliver delegated occupational therapy interventions in accordance with treatment plans developed by a registered Occupational Therapist. Support children and young people to develop functional skills related to self-care, play, learning, mobility and independence. Carry out routine observations and gather information regarding a child's functional abilities and needs. Monitor progress against agreed therapy goals and provide feedback to Occupational Therapists. Support the delivery of group programmes, workshops and training sessions for children, parents and carers.
- Assessment and Review: Undertake delegated assessments of functional abilities within home, school and community environments. Collect and record relevant information to support occupational therapy assessments and reports. Identify changes in a child's circumstances or presentation and report concerns to the supervising Occupational Therapist. Assist with reviews of intervention programmes and equipment provision.
- Equipment and Adaptations: Support assessment processes for minor equipment and adaptations. Provide demonstrations and guidance on the safe use of specialist equipment. Monitor equipment use and report faults, maintenance issues or changes in need. Liaise with suppliers, schools, families and partner agencies regarding equipment provision where appropriate.
- Partnership Working: Develop positive working relationships with children, families, schools and partner agencies. Work collaboratively with social workers, education staff, health professionals and community services. Promote a person-centred approach that enables children and young people to maximise their independence and participation. Contribute to multi-disciplinary meetings where appropriate.
- Record Keeping and Administration: Maintain accurate and timely case records in accordance with professional standards, GDPR and local procedures. Complete reports, progress notes and outcome records as required. Support data collection and service monitoring activities. Assist with management of therapy resources and equipment inventories.
- Safeguarding and Professional Practice: Comply with safeguarding policies and procedures, recognising and reporting any concerns relating to a child's welfare. Work within the scope of delegated authority and seek advice where issues fall outside own competence. Participate in supervision, appraisal and mandatory training. Maintain confidentiality and professional standards at all times.
- General Responsibilities: Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in service delivery. Support service improvement initiatives and quality assurance activities. Maintain a flexible approach to working across different settings. Undertake any other duties appropriate to the grade of the post.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications: NVQ Level 3, BTEC, Foundation Degree or equivalent qualification in Health, Social Care, Child Development, Education or a related field. Evidence of continuing professional development.
Essential Experience: Experience working with children and young people with additional needs, disabilities or developmental difficulties. Experience supporting therapeutic, educational or care-based interventions. Experience working with families and multi-agency professionals. Experience maintaining accurate records and reports.
Essential Knowledge: Understanding of child development and the impact of disability on daily functioning. Understanding of safeguarding children procedures. Knowledge of person-centred and strengths-based approaches. Awareness of occupational therapy principles and child-centred practice.
Essential Skills: Ability to build positive relationships with children, families and professionals. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to organise and prioritise workload effectively. Competent IT and record-keeping skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Desirable Criteria: Experience within a Children's Occupational Therapy Service, SEND Service or Local Authority Children's Services. Experience supporting children with sensory processing difficulties, autism, learning disabilities or physical disabilities. Knowledge of specialist equipment and adaptations. Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Key Competencies: Child-centred practice, Teamwork and collaboration, Communication and engagement, Professional accountability, Problem solving, Adaptability and resilience, Safeguarding awareness, Service user focus.
Additional Information: The post involves working across a variety of environments including family homes, schools, clinics and community venues. The role requires a flexible and child-centred approach, a commitment to equality and inclusion, and adherence to Local Authority policies and procedures. This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and satisfactory references. Eden Brown Synergy is an equal opportunities employer.
Childrens Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor employer: Eden Brown Synergy
Gateshead Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. As part of the Independent Living Service, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team while making a meaningful impact in the community. With competitive pay rates and a commitment to quality assurance, this role provides a rewarding environment for professional growth in a vibrant local authority setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Childrens Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor
✨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 Eden Brown Synergy. 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 Eden Brown Synergy.
We think you need these skills to ace Childrens Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor
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 Eden Brown Synergy:Take some time to research Eden Brown Synergy 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 Eden Brown Synergy
✨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 Eden Brown Synergy's values and approach.
