At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners in achieving independence and functional skills through tailored occupational therapy.
- Company: Join a college that values respect, choice, and personal growth for young adults.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible part-time role with excellent career progression and a commitment to equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy and experience with diverse learning needs required.
The predicted salary is between 37338 - 44962 £ per year.
Permanent, part‑time 0.6 FTE (21.6 hours per week). As a college, we believe that young adults should be respected and have their individual choices, needs and aspirations reflected in the educational opportunities available to them. We encourage independence in all our learners and support them to achieve their full potential through a high‑quality curriculum that develops skills in living, work, community and communication.
Responsibilities
- Support learners to meet their optimal level of function and autonomy, managing sensory, behavioural and motor challenges across a range of environmental settings.
- Carry out holistic occupational therapy assessments and person‑centred interventions that support learners to access and develop their functional skills across the curriculum.
- Promote social integration, support emotional wellbeing and proactively address behaviours of concern, using a person‑centred approach to promote choice, independence and inclusion.
- Plan and deliver training (both classroom and coaching & reflection), keep clear records for clinical and funding purposes, devising and implementing evidence‑based interventions for learners with different communication profiles, and writing reports and support plans/communication guidelines for a range of audiences and needs.
Although the role is group‑wide, it will be primarily based at Kingston College and Carshalton College. Salary is dependent on experience. The successful candidate will be eligible for any salary increase resulting from the annual cost‑of‑living review in the new academic year.
Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent in Occupational Therapy; HPC registered.
- Experience assessing learners with learning disabilities, autism and sensory processing differences.
- Experience designing and implementing evidence‑based interventions, writing reports and support plans, and communicating with diverse audiences.
- Knowledge of sensory and motor needs/learning strategies for this group, and the ability to organise and prioritise a caseload under pressure and strict deadlines.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave (40 days) plus up to 8 additional days over Christmas/New Year and an additional 5 days wellbeing leave. All add to Bank Holiday entitlement.
- Pension scheme with significant employer contribution (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme).
- Subsidised sports facilities, professional development and training, salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. Benefits will be pro‑rated for part‑time staff.
Equal Opportunity & Legal Requirements
South Thames Colleges Group is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. As outlined in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act 2010, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and encourage applications from individuals irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, marriage, and civil partnership. Successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, an online search and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
Closing Date
The closing date for the return of an online application form is 3rd July 2026.
Occupational Therapist in Kingston upon Thames employer: South Thames College Group
At South Thames Colleges Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the individuality and aspirations of our staff and learners alike. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through generous benefits such as 40 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for continuous development, all while working in a vibrant educational environment at Kingston and Carshalton Colleges. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young adults, promoting their independence and well-being in a collaborative and inclusive setting.
Contact Details:
South Thames College Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist in Kingston upon Thames
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Join local mental health organisations and initiatives to immerse yourself in the community. Volunteering at workshops or support groups can not only boost your experience but also help you make valuable connections that might lead to part-time roles. It’s all about getting your name out there!
✨Attend Networking Events and Workshops
Keep an eye on workshops and networking events specifically for therapy and counselling professionals. These gatherings are prime opportunities to meet potential employers, hear about job openings, and engage in meaningful conversations with industry peers. Who knows who you might bump into!
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional online presence highlighting your counselling approach and experiences. Consider starting a blog or sharing insights on social media about therapy methods. This can attract attention from local companies like South Thames College Group who are looking for someone like you for their part-time needs.
✨Directly Approach Local Clinics
Don't be shy about reaching out directly to clinics or counselling practices in your area. Many part-time roles are filled without ever being advertised. A friendly email introducing yourself and expressing interest in potential opportunities at South Thames College Group can sometimes lead to the job you’ve been dreaming of!
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist in Kingston upon Thames
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Compassionate Side:In the therapy and counselling professions, it's crucial to convey your empathy and understanding in your application. Your CV should highlight any relevant volunteer work or experience in helping roles. Let’s face it, potential employers want to see that you can connect with clients, so showcase those soft skills front and centre!
Include Your Credentials:For a part-time role in therapy or counselling, it’s essential to demonstrate your qualifications. Make sure to include any degrees, certifications, or workshops that are relevant to the position. If you’ve completed specific training in mental health or counselling techniques, don’t skip those; they can set you apart from others.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your interest in working part-time and highlight your passion for helping others. Talk about why you’re drawn to South Thames College Group and how the part-time role fits into your career path. We're looking for a genuine connection, so let your personality shine through!
Availability Matters:Since this is a part-time role, clearly outline your availability in your application. Be honest about the hours you can commit, and consider mentioning if you have any flexibility. This helps South Thames College Group see how you can fit into their schedule and be a valuable addition to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Thames College Group
✨Know Your Theoretical Frameworks
It's crucial for us to brush up on the therapy techniques and theoretical frameworks relevant to this field. Be prepared to discuss how you apply them in practice—think about specific case studies from your training that highlight your approach. This not only shows your understanding but also helps you connect with your potential clients at South Thames College Group.
✨Practice Your Active Listening Skills
Since we're diving into therapy and counselling, active listening is our bread and butter. You might face role-play scenarios during the interview, so make sure to showcase your ability to listen and respond empathetically. Demonstrating this skill can make all the difference in how we're perceived as future therapists.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility With Clients
In a part-time role, we often deal with a diverse client base, so it’s important to showcase our adaptability. Be ready to discuss how you can tailor your therapeutic approach to fit different client needs. Sharing any past experiences—whether from internships or coursework—will provide great insights to South Thames College Group about your versatility.
✨Prepare Your Questions on Working with Diverse Populations
Part-time roles can sometimes mean working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds. Think of specific questions to ask about how South Thames College Group supports inclusivity and handles diverse cases. This not only highlights your interest but also shows that you’ve thought ahead about client dynamics and your role within them.
