At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver impactful occupational therapy to support children with additional learning needs.
- Company: Join Orbis Education and Care, a supportive organisation focused on therapeutic education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, term time only hours, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team and receive clinical supervision.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people every day.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and experience with children with additional needs required.
The predicted salary is between 13.75 - 13.75 £ per hour.
Locations: Swansea & Powys Schools
Salary: £35,481 - £39,423 pro rata (equivalent to £45,000 - £50,000 FTE)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Term Time Only (41 weeks per year)
Empower Young People. Shape Futures. Make a Difference.
Orbis Education and Care is seeking a passionate and dedicated Specialist Occupational Therapist to support our specialist schools across Swansea and Powys. This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, helping children and young people with complex needs flourish in their educational environments. Working across our specialist settings, you will play a key role in providing assessment, intervention, consultation, and training, enabling pupils to achieve their full potential both in school and beyond.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Deliver high-quality occupational therapy assessment and intervention for children and young people with additional learning needs.
- Use specialist approaches, including sensory integration, trauma-informed practice, and evidence-based occupational therapy interventions.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, learning support staff, families, and multidisciplinary colleagues.
- Support the development of inclusive learning environments through consultation, coaching, and staff training.
- Provide individual and group interventions focused on sensory processing, motor skills, independence, participation, and daily living skills.
- Contribute to EHCP/IDP reviews, multidisciplinary meetings, and therapeutic planning.
- Build staff confidence and capability through training and practical support.
- Champion early intervention and the embedding of therapeutic strategies into everyday school life.
About You
- A Degree in Occupational Therapy.
- Current HCPC registration.
- Experience working with children and young people with additional needs, including autism and complex learning needs.
- Specialist knowledge of sensory integration, attachment, trauma-informed practice, or social, emotional and mental health needs.
- Experience delivering training, consultation, and support within educational settings.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and report-writing skills.
- A commitment to evidence-based practice and ongoing professional development.
- A full UK driving licence and the ability to travel between sites.
Why Join Orbis?
- Term Time Only working (41 weeks per year).
- Competitive salary of £35,481 - £39,423 pro rata (£45,000 - £50,000 FTE equivalent).
- Clinical supervision and professional support.
- Ongoing specialist training and CPD opportunities.
- The opportunity to work within a collaborative multidisciplinary team.
- Meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of children and young people every day.
Orbis Education and Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and relevant safeguarding checks.
Specialist Occupational Therapist in Swansea employer: Orbis Education & Care
Ty Trafle School in Swansea is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment where teachers can truly make a difference in the lives of children with complex needs. With small class sizes, a strong focus on professional development, and a commitment to work-life balance through term-time only hours, our staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values wellbeing, inclusivity, and the transformative power of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Occupational Therapist in Swansea
✨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 Specialist Occupational Therapist in Swansea
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 Orbis Education & Care. 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 Orbis Education & Care
✨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 Orbis Education & Care and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.