At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to deliver impactful therapy for young people with complex disabilities.
- Company: Join National Star, a specialist organisation dedicated to changing lives through education and care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape the future of Occupational Therapy services and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference every day while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Occupational Therapist with leadership experience and a passion for supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 38368 - 46894 £ per year.
Are you an experienced senior Occupational Therapist / Manager looking to use your leadership skills while continuing to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with complex disabilities? At National Star, we're looking to further strengthen our Occupational Therapy team with an experienced leader who can ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centred therapy that enables learners to maximise their independence, achieve their EHCP outcomes and work towards their long-term aspirations. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys combining hands-on clinical practice with team leadership, service development and mentoring others.
About the role
As Occupational Therapy Manager based at our Ullenwood site on the outskirts of Cheltenham, you will lead the day-to-day management of the Occupational Therapy team across all our sites in Cheltenham, Hereford, Worcester and South Wales. Alongside maintaining your own clinical caseload, you'll oversee assessments and interventions, support workforce planning and staff development, and ensure that we continue to focus on quality improvement across the service. You'll work collaboratively with colleagues from across education, care and therapy services to ensure learners receive a joined-up, outcome-focused approach that supports their health, wellbeing and independence. The role also offers the opportunity to contribute to the development of specialist areas of practice, support placements and apprenticeships, promote continuing professional development within the team, and help shape the future direction of Occupational Therapy services at National Star.
About you
You'll be a qualified Occupational Therapist registered with the HCPC, with significant post-registration experience and a passion for supporting young people with complex needs. You'll already have some leadership / management experience and be confident in providing clinical guidance and support. We're looking for someone with excellent communication and organisational skills, strong clinical reasoning and a collaborative approach. You will enjoy developing others, driving high standards of practice and working as part of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the best possible outcomes for learners.
Why join National Star?
National Star is a specialist organisation with a strong reputation for changing lives through education, care and support. You'll be joining a dedicated and experienced team committed to helping young people achieve greater independence, confidence and opportunity. In return, we offer ongoing professional development, opportunities to further develop your leadership skills, a supportive working environment and the chance to make a genuine difference every day.
Contract Type: Permanent | Contract: Full time (37 hours / 52 weeks) | Salary: £53,480 FTE | Location Status: On site (Ullenwood) with travel as required | Interview Date: TBC | Closing Date: 06/09/2026
Occupational Therapy Manager in Cheltenham employer: National Star
National Star is an exceptional employer that prioritises sustainability and social impact, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about environmental initiatives. With a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and personal growth, employees have the opportunity to lead meaningful projects that directly contribute to the organisation's mission of transforming lives. Located in a supportive environment, you will engage with diverse teams and communities, driving positive change while developing your career in sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapy Manager in Cheltenham
✨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 National Star. 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 National Star.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapy Manager in Cheltenham
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 National Star:Take some time to research National Star 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 National Star
✨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 National Star's values and approach.
