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- Tasks: Provide high-quality Occupational Therapy to support pupils' learning and independence.
- Company: Overstone Park School, a nurturing environment for children aged 5 to 18.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Occupational Therapy and HCPC registration required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to inclusive education and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Overstone Park School, Northampton
Contract Type: Part-time / Term time only
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Reports to: SENCo / Head of Therapy and Inclusion
Purpose of the Role: To provide a high-quality Occupational Therapy service to pupils at Overstone Park School, supporting their access to learning, functional independence, and personal development. The postholder will independently manage a caseload of pupils with a range of physical, sensory, and developmental needs, using evidence-based, child-centred approaches. They will work as part of the school’s multidisciplinary team, which includes Speech and Language Therapists, Behaviour Mentors, SEN staff, and teachers, ensuring therapy is integrated into the educational experience of every pupil.
Key Responsibilities:
- Clinical Practice: Independently manage a defined caseload of pupils with diverse and complex needs. Conduct detailed assessments to identify barriers to participation and functional performance in self-care, learning, and play. Develop, deliver, and evaluate individualised therapy programmes to promote independence, access to education, and well-being. Plan and implement interventions in individual, small-group, or classroom-based settings. Use a range of standardised and non-standardised assessments, clinical reasoning, and activity analysis to support evidence-based practice. Prescribe and assess the use of adaptive equipment, seating, and sensory regulation tools to support pupil needs. Monitor and review therapy outcomes, adjusting programmes as appropriate. Ensure documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and maintained in line with HCPC, RCOT, and school policy standards.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants, and other professionals to embed therapy goals into classroom practice. Contribute to multidisciplinary meetings, EHCP reviews, and care planning discussions. Provide professional advice and guidance to staff and parents to support consistent approaches to pupils’ occupational needs. Participate in joint sessions and planning with Speech and Language Therapists, Behaviour Mentors, and SENCo to ensure cohesive support for each pupil.
- Leadership and Supervision: Provide day-to-day guidance and supervision to Occupational Therapy Assistants or student therapists. Support the induction and mentoring of junior colleagues and trainee practitioners. Take an active role in the professional development of the therapy team through knowledge sharing, in-service training, and reflective practice. Contribute to the setting and maintenance of quality standards within the therapy service. Deputise for the Lead Therapist when required.
- Communication and Record Keeping: Communicate clearly, compassionately, and professionally with pupils, parents, staff, and external agencies. Adapt communication to meet the needs of pupils with speech, language, or cognitive difficulties. Provide detailed written reports, therapy plans, and progress updates to support EHCPs and annual reviews. Maintain confidentiality and comply with GDPR and safeguarding regulations at all times. Contribute to reports for external professionals (e.g. Local Authority, NHS clinicians) when required.
- Service Development and Innovation: Support the ongoing development of the therapy provision at Overstone Park School, ensuring alignment with national SEND and therapeutic standards. Review and evaluate service delivery, identifying opportunities for improvement and innovation. Participate in school-wide projects that enhance sensory regulation, physical development, and access to the curriculum. Manage therapy resources and equipment responsibly and ensure safe usage and storage.
- Training and Professional Development: Deliver training workshops and CPD sessions for school staff on sensory integration, fine and gross motor skills, handwriting, and other OT-related topics. Participate in regular clinical supervision and maintain a CPD portfolio in accordance with RCOT and HCPC guidelines. Keep knowledge and skills up to date through research, professional reading, and attendance at relevant training. Reflect critically on own practice and engage in performance reviews with the SENCo or Head of Therapy.
- Safeguarding and Compliance: Adhere to Overstone Park School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy at all times. Maintain professional boundaries and act with integrity and discretion when supporting pupils. Report any concerns regarding pupil welfare in line with school procedures. Comply with statutory requirements under the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice, and Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). Maintain registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and membership with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
- BSc/MSc in Occupational Therapy.
- HCPC registration (essential).
- Experience working with children and young people with physical, sensory, or developmental needs.
- Knowledge of current best practices in paediatric occupational therapy.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience in an educational or special school setting.
- Training or experience in sensory integration, handwriting programmes, or assistive technology.
- Experience developing resources and supporting EHCP reviews.
Personal Attributes:
- Empathetic, approachable, and child-centred in all practice.
- Proactive in promoting inclusion and independence.
- Resilient and adaptable in a busy, varied school environment.
- Committed to continuous improvement and reflective practice.
Safeguarding Statement: Overstone Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. All appointments are subject to: Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance. Verification of the right to work in the UK. Satisfactory references. Online and social media screening. Medical and suitability checks. Applicants must declare any unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Application Process: Applications must be made via the school’s official recruitment process. CVs will not be accepted. For further information, please contact: Overstone Park School, Northampton.
About Overstone Park School: A non-selective independent school registered with DFE and ISI for boys and girls aged 5 to 18 years.
Occupational Therapist employer: Overstone Park School
Contact Detail:
Overstone Park School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and therapy sectors. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet professionals from Overstone Park School or similar institutions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to occupational therapy. Think about how you can showcase your experience with children and your collaborative skills. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for child-centred approaches! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've made a difference in a child's life. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about their development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Overstone Park School. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of an Occupational Therapist. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples where you've worked with children or young people with diverse needs. We want to see how you've made a difference in their lives through your therapy practice.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your written application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your communication is professional yet approachable. Remember, we appreciate clarity as much as compassion!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official recruitment process on the website. It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Overstone Park School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest practices in paediatric occupational therapy. Familiarise yourself with evidence-based approaches and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in your previous roles. This shows you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about your field.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of examples where you've worked effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Be prepared to share how you’ve contributed to joint sessions or planning with other professionals, as this will highlight your teamwork skills.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations with pupils. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might face and how you would address them using your clinical reasoning and child-centred approaches. This will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨Communicate Clearly and Compassionately
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing complex topics like sensory integration or adaptive equipment. Remember, communication is crucial in this role, so showing that you can adapt your communication style to meet the needs of different audiences will set you apart.
