Occupational Therapist (Children)

New Forest School is seeking a proactive, motivated Occupational Therapist with paediatric experience to join their team. Taking responsibility for service provision within the school you will educate teaching and support staff regarding the Occupational Therapy role and how to use skills to support students.

New Forest School is an outstanding, small independent school with an excellent reputation for working with vulnerable students with ASD, attachment difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs and challenging behaviours.

Core responsibilities include: 

• Provide Occupational Therapy assessment and intervention for children identified as needing OT support/intervention. 
• Independently manage a case load of young people with identified occupational therapy needs. 
• Work with carers, Education, Health Social Care and other multi-disciplinary colleagues as appropriate to assess, design and develop evidence-based intervention and management plans. 
• To identify, develop and deliver in-service training for education staff, other professionals, students and parents / carers and modify training packages according to the needs of training participants. 
• Demonstrate skills in motivating and engaging both children and parents /carers in the Occupational Therapy process.

Education and Qualifications 

• Degree/Diploma in Occupational Therapy. 
• HCPC Registration. 
• Interest relevant to working with families and children including special needs e.g. autistic spectrum disorders, learning difficulties.

Skills  

• Paediatric experience including child and family. 
• Skills in assessment of motor coordination and sensory processing concerns. 
• Ability to present clearly in person, and on paper. 
• Good organisational skills. Good interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a skill mix team. 
• Negotiating and problem-solving skills. 
• Plan and deliver intervention and advice for children in the school setting. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills including listening and empathy. 
• IT/computer skills. 
• Driving licence and access to a car is desirable.

Knowledge 

• Occupational Therapy theory and practice relevant to working with children special educational needs and their families. 
• Relevant legislation to OT, Education and social care. 
• Working in the school setting. 
• Understanding how children learn and how childhood conditions can impact on this.

What we can offer in return: 

• Competitive salary 
• Supportive, passionate and friendly working environment 
• Staff bonus scheme after qualifying period and subject to company performance 
• Excellent Continuing Professional Development opportunities 
• Staff Introduction Bonus

*T&Cs apply to Welcome Bonus.

New Forest Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Children and Young People, applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate child protection screening, including employment references and DBS check.