At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct assessments and provide therapeutic support for children with special educational needs.
- Company: Prospero Teaching, a supportive consultancy in Wandsworth.
- Benefits: Flexible working patterns and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative role with schools and families, ensuring holistic support for each child.
- Why this job: Shape children's futures by helping them access education and develop independence.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Occupational Therapy and at least 2 years' experience with SEND.
About the Opportunity
Prospero Teaching is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist to support a Local Authority in Wandsworth with statutory EHCP assessments and ongoing therapeutic input for children and young people with a wide range of SEN and complex needs. This is an on-site, ad-hoc/temporary role, ideal for an OT who is confident working autonomously and delivering high-quality, evidence-based assessments.
You will work with children presenting with a variety of needs. Your assessments and recommendations will directly shape legally compliant EHCPs and ensure children receive the support required to access education, develop independence, and participate meaningfully in daily life. Collaboration is central to this role. You will work closely with schools, families, SEN teams, health professionals, and other stakeholders to ensure a holistic, integrated approach to each child's support plan.
Role Details
- Location - Wandsworth, London
- Working Pattern - On-site
- Contract Type - Temp / Ad-hoc
Key Responsibilities
- Paediatric OT assessments - Conduct high-quality, holistic occupational therapy assessments for children undergoing EHC needs assessments (EHCNAs).
- EHCP recommendations - Produce clear, outcome-focused, evidence-based recommendations that contribute to legally compliant EHCPs.
- Multi-agency collaboration - Work closely with schools, families, SEN caseworkers, and multidisciplinary professionals.
- Annual reviews - Provide professional input for annual reviews and contribute to ongoing EHCP processes.
- Clinical documentation - Maintain accurate, timely clinical records in line with safeguarding, GDPR, and professional standards.
Requirements
- BSc/MSc in Occupational Therapy
- HCPC registration
- Minimum 2 years' experience working with children and young people with SEND
- Experience contributing to EHCPs within educational or clinical settings
- Strong skills in assessment, functional analysis, report writing, and communication
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service
- Professional indemnity and public liability insurance
Desirable Experience
- Membership of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT)
- Experience working in early years, mainstream schools, specialist provisions, or alternative settings
- Knowledge of sensory integration, autism, physical disabilities, or complex medical needs
Additional Information
This is a consultancy-style position with flexible working patterns. All safeguarding and vetting checks must be completed prior to starting. Prospero Teaching is acting as an employment business/education recruitment agency for this vacancy. The successful candidate must complete full safeguarding and vetting checks. All adults working with children and vulnerable young people are responsible for safeguarding and promoting their welfare.
Occupational Therapists needed in Wandsworth employer: Prospero Teaching
Prospero Teaching is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Occupational Therapists in Wandsworth. With a focus on professional growth, employees benefit from flexible working patterns and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's lives through high-quality assessments and multi-agency collaboration. The company values autonomy and encourages its staff to develop their skills while contributing to a holistic approach in supporting children with special educational needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapists needed in Wandsworth
✨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 Occupational Therapists needed in Wandsworth
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 Prospero Teaching. 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 Prospero Teaching
✨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 Prospero Teaching and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.
