At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in thriving through tailored therapeutic interventions.
- Company: Southover, a supportive school dedicated to empowering students.
- Benefits: Warm work environment, collaborative team, and direct impact on students' lives.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team where your skills and innovation are valued.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working creatively and flexibly.
- Qualifications: Qualified Occupational Therapist with experience in sensory and motor needs.
The predicted salary is between 29970 - 36483 £ per year.
About the role
Are you a passionate, skilled and compassionate Occupational Therapist who believes every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive? Do you want to work somewhere where your expertise has a visible, lasting impact — where independence grows, barriers are reduced, and young people are empowered to succeed in all aspects of their lives? At Southover, we are looking for a committed Occupational Therapist who brings clinical excellence, creativity and a genuine determination to make a difference. Our students have often experienced disrupted journeys, but with the right therapeutic support, they make exceptional progress — not only academically, but socially, emotionally and functionally. This is a unique opportunity to work as part of a multi‑disciplinary team, where therapy is fully integrated into the school day. You will play a key role in supporting students with sensory and motor needs, helping staff embed effective strategies, and ensuring every young person can access learning and daily life with confidence. If you thrive in a dynamic environment where no two days are the same, where relationships are central, and where your professional judgement and innovation are valued, you will feel right at home here.
What we are looking for:
- A qualified Occupational Therapist who will make a real difference
- A skilled clinician with experience of sensory and motor needs
- Someone who is flexible, creative and solution‑focused
- A strong relationship‑builder with excellent communication skills
- A proactive team player who thrives in a collaborative environment
What we offer:
- A warm, welcoming and supportive working environment where staff wellbeing really matters
- The opportunity to work closely with students and see the direct impact of your interventions
- A committed, multi‑disciplinary team who collaborate, support and celebrate each other
- Opportunities to contribute to whole‑school practice, training and development
- A highly rewarding role where you can have a transformational impact on young people’s lives
Important information:
- We only accept applications using our application form; CVs cannot be considered
- Informal discussions are warmly welcomed — please contact the School Office on 0208 446 0300, press option 3 for HR
- Southover is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment
- The successful candidate will require an Enhanced DBS Certificate and will be subject to a range of safer recruitment checks
- All staff must comply with data protection responsibilities and adhere to GDPR principles
- We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and operate in full accordance with the Equality Act 2010
- Applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK
- Please note: Depending on application numbers, we may shortlist and interview before the closing date
Occupational Therapist employer: SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL
At Southover, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our Occupational Therapists in a supportive and collaborative environment. Our commitment to staff wellbeing, professional development, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people sets us apart, making this a truly rewarding place to work. Join us and be part of a dedicated multi-disciplinary team where your expertise will help empower students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Contact Details:
SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist
✨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 SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL. 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 SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist
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 SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL:Take some time to research SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL 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 SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL
✨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 SOUTHOVER PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL's values and approach.
