- Conduct occupational therapy assessments for pupils with autism, sensory processing difficulties, and developmental delays
- Design and deliver evidence-based individual and group OT interventions
- Develop sensory diets and environmental adaptations to support regulation and learning
- Collaborate with Teachers, SaLT, and Behaviour Specialists to embed therapeutic strategies into classroom practice
- Contribute to EHCP assessments, annual reviews, and multi-agency planning
- Write clear, professional OT reports for EHCPs, annual reviews, and external professionals
- Advise and train classroom staff on OT strategies and equipment use
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date clinical records in line with RCOT standards
- Communicate effectively with parents and carers regarding pupil progress and home recommendations
- Uphold safeguarding and child protection procedures at all times
- Degree in Occupational Therapy and HCPC registration
- Experience delivering OT with children, including those with autism or developmental needs
- Confident in sensory integration assessment and intervention
- Strong working knowledge of EHCPs and SEND legislation
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
- Clear verbal and written communication skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and child-centred practice
- Postgraduate training in sensory integration (e.g. Ayres Sensory Integration)
- Experience in a specialist SEND school, early years, or paediatric community setting
- Knowledge of autism-specific frameworks and structured teaching approaches
- Experience supporting non-verbal or pre-verbal pupils
- Competitive salary with progression
- Daily multidisciplinary collaboration in a purpose-built SEND environment
- Funded continuing professional development and specialist training
- Manageable caseload with genuine clinical autonomy
- Strong staff support and supervision structures
- 34 days holiday (inclusive of bank and public holidays)
- Laptop for work and home use
- Clear career progression pathways within a growing specialist school
- OTs who want dedicated specialist paediatric practice, not a mixed or generic caseload
- Clinicians who want to work within a school, not visit one
- Therapists who value real collaboration with teachers and other clinical colleagues
- OTs motivated by long-term developmental outcomes, not throughput metrics
- OTs seeking a community or hospital outpatient setting
- Those uncomfortable with a school-based, team-embedded way of working
- Clinicians who prefer working in isolation from educational practice
We expect everybody to share our commitment to safeguarding.
Pre-employment checks are carried out, professional references sought and successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and other relevant checks.
We comply with the DBS code of practice. As such, having a criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us; the nature of the position and the circumstances and context of your offences will be considered.
Online Searches
An online search is carried out on all shortlisted candidates.
Share An Initial Interest
Please submit your CV and a brief statement outlining why you would like to work at FBS and how you feel your experience makes you a suitable candidate for this role.
Apply
After expressing an initial interest and reviewing the information on our website, suitable applicants will be invited to an initial screening phone call and to complete our application form.
Click the links to download the forms.
FBS Application form
FBS Self-disclosure form
Applicants who are shortlisted will be required to attend an assessment and interview day.
We offer referral awards to existing colleagues for recommending people who come to work with us.
Occupational Therapist | SEND School | London (Chelsea / Imperial Wharf) employer: First Bridge School
First Bridge School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Occupational Therapists passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with autism and complex developmental needs. Located in the vibrant area of Chelsea, London, we provide competitive salaries, funded professional development opportunities, and a purpose-built specialist SEND environment that fosters both personal and professional growth. Our commitment to multidisciplinary teamwork ensures that you will have the autonomy to implement therapeutic strategies effectively while enjoying a healthy work-life balance with 34 days of holiday.
