At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with autism and sensory needs through tailored occupational therapy.
- Company: Specialist school dedicated to helping young people thrive.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only hours, and specialist training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career progression and wellbeing initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Recognised Occupational Therapy qualification and experience with ASC.
Location: Wokingham
Salary: Up to £51000 per annum (pro rata to term time) + SEN Allowance
Job Type: Permanent, Term Time Only
Hours: 37 hours per week
We are recruiting on behalf of a specialist school for an experienced Occupational Therapist to join its growing multidisciplinary therapy team. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a purpose-built specialist education setting supporting children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated learning, communication and sensory needs. You'll play a key role in helping pupils access education, develop independence and achieve their individual goals through high-quality occupational therapy interventions.
The Role
- Working as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team, you will assess, plan and deliver occupational therapy programmes for pupils with a range of complex needs.
- You'll work closely with teachers, families and other professionals to ensure therapeutic strategies are embedded throughout the school environment.
- This role also offers excellent opportunities for specialist training and continued professional development, including areas such as Sensory Integration and SOS Feeding.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess pupils' functional, sensory and motor needs.
- Develop and implement individualised occupational therapy intervention plans.
- Support children and young people with autism, sensory processing differences and additional learning needs.
- Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) assessments, reviews and outcomes.
- Work collaboratively with education staff, families and external agencies.
- Provide practical advice, training and guidance to school staff to promote therapeutic strategies within the classroom.
- Maintain accurate clinical records and reports in line with HCPC standards.
- Participate in multidisciplinary meetings and contribute to the ongoing development of therapy services.
About You
- A recognised qualification in Occupational Therapy.
- Current HCPC registration.
- Experience working with children or young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).
- Experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
- Knowledge of a range of occupational therapy assessment and intervention approaches.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- A commitment to delivering high-quality, child-centred therapy.
What's on Offer
- Additional SEN allowance.
- Term-time only working pattern.
- Specialist training opportunities, including Sensory Integration and SOS Feeding.
- Excellent CPD and career progression opportunities.
- Supportive multidisciplinary team environment.
- Comprehensive staff wellbeing programme.
- Pension scheme.
- Free flu vaccinations.
- Free eye tests (where eligible).
- Additional wellbeing leave and employee benefits.
To apply, contact Jamie Carroll on (phone number removed) or email @INDKAR
Occupational Therapist - SEN School in Wokingham employer: Xander Group
Join a dedicated and supportive multidisciplinary team at our specialist school in Wokingham, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition and associated needs. We offer a collaborative work culture, excellent professional development opportunities, and a comprehensive wellbeing programme, ensuring that you thrive both personally and professionally while working term-time only.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Occupational Therapist - SEN School in Wokingham
✨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 Xander Group. 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 Xander Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Occupational Therapist - SEN School in Wokingham
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 Xander Group:Take some time to research Xander Group 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 Xander Group
✨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 Xander Group's values and approach.
