At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver engaging occupational therapy programmes for pupils with special needs across multiple school sites.
- Company: A dedicated SEND school in Hackney focused on personalised learning.
- Benefits: Professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative work with a passionate team and diverse curriculum.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: HCPC-registered Occupational Therapist with experience in educational settings.
The predicted salary is between 38616 - 46141 £ per year.
A specialist school for pupils with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) is currently looking for a qualified Occupational Therapist to join their staff on a temporary-to-permanent basis from September.
The Role
As one of the school’s Occupational Therapists, you will be working across 3 school sites based in Hackney. You will assess, plan, resource and deliver effective and engaging occupational therapy programmes for pupils aged 3–19 (supported by teachers and school leaders). Pupils attending the school have varying needs and all are provided with a combined programme of therapy and teaching to meet their individual needs.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues, external professionals and families to support pupils’ participation, independence and access to learning. Your role will also include planning and delivering whole-staff training to promote occupational therapy strategies and best practice throughout the school.
Your weekly role will consist of therapeutic work in one-to-one sessions with individual pupils, as well as supporting small groups or whole classes depending on need. You may deliver structured, weekly intervention programmes and/or provide in-the-moment therapeutic support within the classroom environment. You will support the successful operation of all aspects of the school, as directed by the senior leadership team.
The School
This large specialist SEND school is based in Hackney and caters for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities. All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and most pupils have severe or profound needs. Many have additional needs, including complex medical conditions or autism spectrum conditions.
The school uses a multidisciplinary, personalised approach to supporting learners through a diverse curriculum that focuses on the arts, physical development and enrichment opportunities. There is an established and dedicated staff team of teachers, support staff and therapists working across multiple school sites, and there are excellent opportunities for professional development.
To apply for this role, you must be an HCPC-registered Occupational Therapist and have:
- Outstanding knowledge and understanding of occupational therapy practice and its application within educational settings
- Experience of supporting children and young people with SEND, including those with complex learning, physical and sensory needs
- Understanding of mental health in children, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma and the impact of abuse and mental health difficulties on child development, attachment and behaviour
- Understanding of child development, learning and children with SEND
- Understanding of relevant policies, codes of practice and awareness of relevant legislation
- General understanding of the national curriculum and school provision
- Excellent communication, assessment and report‑writing skills
- The ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
If you have the appropriate qualifications, skills and experience listed above, please apply with an up-to-date CV.
Occupational Therapist Full Time Permanent employer: Philosophy Education, Ltd.
Join a dedicated team at our large specialist SEND school in Hackney, where we prioritise the growth and development of both our pupils and staff. We offer a supportive work culture that fosters collaboration among professionals, providing excellent opportunities for professional development and training. As an Occupational Therapist, you will play a vital role in enhancing the lives of children with special educational needs, making a meaningful impact in their educational journey.
Contact Details:
Philosophy Education, Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist Full Time Permanent
✨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 Philosophy Education, Ltd.. 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 Philosophy Education, Ltd..
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist Full Time Permanent
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 Philosophy Education, Ltd.:Take some time to research Philosophy Education, Ltd. 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 Philosophy Education, Ltd.
✨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 Philosophy Education, Ltd.'s values and approach.
