About the role
Unlocking Language is looking for a motivated and compassionate Newly Qualified Occupational Therapist to join our growing multidisciplinary team.
This is an excellent opportunity for an OT at the beginning of their career who wants to develop their paediatric experience within a supportive clinical environment.
The role will involve working across a mix of schools and Local Authority-funded provision in London, supporting children and young people with a range of occupational, sensory, motor and functional needs.
You will have access to regular clinical supervision, structured support and guidance from experienced clinicians while gradually building confidence and independence in managing your caseload.
Key responsibilities
As a Newly Qualified Occupational Therapist, you will:
- Assess children and young people presenting with a range of occupational and functional needs.
- Plan and deliver individual and group-based Occupational Therapy interventions.
- Support pupils with areas including fine and gross motor skills, handwriting, self-care, sensory differences, regulation and participation in everyday school activities.
- Complete observations within classroom and school environments.
- Develop practical strategies and programmes for use by teaching staff, support staff and families.
- Contribute to EHCP provision and work towards identified outcomes.
- Produce clear clinical notes, assessment reports, recommendations and other written documentation.
- Liaise with parents, carers, teachers, SENCOs and other professionals involved in the child's support.
- Provide modelling, advice and guidance to school staff.
- Contribute to staff training where appropriate, with support from senior clinicians.
- Work collaboratively with Speech and Language Therapists and other members of the wider multidisciplinary team.
- Maintain accurate and timely clinical records in line with professional and organisational standards.
- Manage an allocated caseload with support from your supervisor and clinical team.
- Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, CPD and reflective practice.
- Follow safeguarding, information governance and clinical governance procedures at all times.
Person specification
Essential
- Degree or postgraduate qualification in Occupational Therapy.
- HCPC registration, or eligibility to register immediately upon qualification.
- A strong interest in paediatric Occupational Therapy.
- Understanding of the impact of occupational, sensory and motor needs on children's participation and learning.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to build positive working relationships with children, families, education staff and other professionals.
- Good organisation and time-management skills.
- Willingness to learn, reflect and respond positively to supervision.
- Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice.
- Ability and willingness to travel between schools across London.
Desirable
- Placement experience within paediatrics, SEND, schools or community services.
- Experience working with autistic children and young people or those with additional needs.
- Knowledge of EHCPs and SEND provision.
- Experience supporting sensory, fine motor, handwriting or functional independence needs.
- Experience working within a multidisciplinary team.
New graduates are encouraged to apply. We are more interested in your potential, approach and commitment to developing your paediatric OT skills than expecting extensive post-qualification experience.
About Unlocking Language
Unlocking Language is an independent specialist provider of Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy services.
Our clinicians are employed directly by us and work within a supportive clinical structure that includes regular supervision, team leadership and ongoing professional development.
We work with mainstream schools, specialist settings, Local Authorities and families, providing therapy that is practical, collaborative and embedded into children's everyday environments.
We are committed to excellence and empowerment, not only for the children and families we support, but for our team too. As part of Unlocking Language, you will be part of a warm and growing company that invests in your professional journey and celebrates your contribution.
Benefits
- Pension Scheme
- Staff Discounts and Well-being programme
- Access to Technology
- Child care flexible
- Working and supervision
- Clear career progression
- Cycle to work scheme and gym discount.
- Annual Leave : 20 days’ holiday per year, plus 8 bank holidays and an additional day off for your birthday.
- Company closure periods: The company closes from 23 December to 2 January, for the final week of July
- Optional August break: Therapists can choose to take the full month of August off, with salary adjusted accordingly.
Location: LondonContract: Full-time / Part-time consideredWorking pattern: School basedSalary: £31,166 – £34,000 (pro rata) per year
Newly Qualified Occupational Therapist employer: Unlocking Language
Unlocking Language is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and family-friendly work culture that prioritises the well-being of its team members. With flexible payment options and opportunities for professional growth, you will thrive in a collaborative environment alongside dedicated professionals, making a meaningful impact on children's lives in London.
