At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of multidisciplinary therapies and support pupil wellbeing.
- Company: Forest Bridge School is a specialist provision for autistic children in Maidenhead, Berkshire.
- Benefits: Full-time contract with a salary band of 7-8A depending on experience.
- Other info: Applications require an informal Teams call with the Headteacher before submission.
- Why this job: Shape a strengths-based therapeutic approach in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified therapist with leadership experience or ambition to grow into a leadership role.
The predicted salary is between 47810 - 54710 £ per year.
Forest Bridge School is a nurturing, inclusive specialist provision for autistic children and young people. We are proud to champion neurodiversity and are seeking a compassionate, skilled, and forward-thinking Therapies Lead to join our team and guide the development of our multidisciplinary therapies provision.
This is a unique and rewarding opportunity for a qualified therapist—such as an Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Therapist, or another allied health professional—with leadership experience or the ambition to grow into a leadership role. You will play a key part in shaping a strengths-based, person-centered therapeutic approach that celebrates each pupil’s individuality and supports their wellbeing, communication, and engagement.
At Forest Bridge School, we value collaboration, curiosity, and creativity. Our therapies team works closely with educators, families, and external professionals to co-create meaningful, inclusive support strategies that empower autistic learners to thrive. The successful candidate will bring clinical expertise, a commitment to neuro-affirming practice, and a passion for working in partnership with others.
We are looking for someone who is reflective, innovative, and excited by the opportunity to lead a team that is continually learning and evolving. You will have the opportunity to contribute to whole-school development, influence strategic direction, and ensure therapy is embedded meaningfully across the school day as well as at home.
We warmly encourage prospective applicants to arrange a tour of the school prior to applying, to gain a deeper understanding of our ethos and approach. Before submitting an application, we invite you to contact Elizabeth Farnden, Headteacher at head@forestbridgeschool.org.uk to arrange an informal Teams call and learn more about the role. Please note: applications will not be considered prior to a Teams call and may be rejected.
Join us in creating a therapeutic environment where autistic children and young people are understood, respected, and supported to flourish. Apply now and be part of a passionate team making a lasting difference.
Therapies Lead (Middle Leadership Team) employer: Forest Bridge School
Forest Bridge School champions neurodiversity and values collaboration, curiosity, and creativity. Located in Maidenhead, it offers a supportive environment for autistic learners. The team focuses on co-creating inclusive strategies that empower students to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Therapies Lead (Middle Leadership Team)
✨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 Forest Bridge School. 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 Forest Bridge School.
We think you need these skills to ace Therapies Lead (Middle Leadership Team)
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 Forest Bridge School:Take some time to research Forest Bridge School 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 Forest Bridge School
✨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 Forest Bridge School's values and approach.
