At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs to develop skills and independence.
- Company: Specialist SEN school in West London with a collaborative team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time role, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and empower young people to thrive in education.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Occupational Therapist with experience in SEN settings.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Location: West London
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-time, long-term
Pay: Competitive, dependent on experience
Agency: Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment are recruiting on behalf of a specialist secondary SEN school in West London for a qualified and experienced Occupational Therapist to join their multidisciplinary team from September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for an Occupational Therapist who is passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs and wants to work within a specialist educational environment.
The Role
You will play an important role in supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, helping them develop the skills, confidence and independence they need to access education and everyday life. Working closely with teaching staff, the SEND team, families and other professionals, you will provide specialist occupational therapy assessment, intervention and advice. The role would particularly suit an OT with experience working with young people with SEMH and complex SEN needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess pupils' individual occupational therapy needs.
- Develop and deliver appropriate therapeutic interventions.
- Support pupils with sensory processing, emotional regulation and functional skills.
- Provide practical strategies to help pupils access learning.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, support staff and the wider SEND team.
- Contribute to EHCP assessments, reviews and outcomes.
- Provide advice and training to school staff where appropriate.
- Monitor and evaluate pupils' progress.
- Liaise with parents, carers and external professionals.
- Promote independence and positive outcomes for pupils.
The Ideal Candidate
- Be a fully qualified Occupational Therapist - essential.
- Have experience working with children or young people.
- Have previous experience working within an SEN school or specialist educational setting - essential.
- Have experience supporting pupils with SEMH needs - essential.
- Have a strong understanding of sensory processing and emotional regulation.
- Be confident working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Be patient, adaptable and passionate about working with young people with additional needs.
Occupational Therapist in Hayes employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in Preston that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, immediate commission opportunities, and generous holiday allowances, we ensure our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Our comprehensive Impact Academy training programme equips you with the skills to excel in recruitment, while ongoing support from experienced mentors fosters a collaborative environment where you can achieve your career aspirations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist in Hayes
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment. 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 Tradewind Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist in Hayes
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 Tradewind Recruitment:Take some time to research Tradewind Recruitment 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 Tradewind Recruitment
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment's values and approach.
