Open Arms offers comprehensive support services for children and families, focusing on neurodiversity, mental health, and developmental needs.
The team provides detailed assessments, personalised reports, and practical advice tailored to each individual child, ensuring that recommendations are both effective and compassionate.
Families benefit from the expertise of highly qualified occupational therapists, who combine clinical knowledge with warmth, empathy, and ethical practice. The service is distinguished by its thoroughness, clarity in communication, and commitment to positive outcomes, as reflected in the rolling testimonials from parents and carers.
Open Arms is dedicated to empowering families and professionals through collaborative guidance and ongoing support.
Job Purpose
To support the delivery of high-quality occupational therapy services for children and young people across multiple schools. The role involves working under the guidance and supervision of qualified Occupational Therapists to implement therapy programs, assist pupils in accessing the curriculum, promote participation in daily activities, and enable inclusion within the school environment.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Support to Children and Young People
* Work with individual pupils and small groups in schools to support occupational therapy programs.
* Implement strategies to assist pupils with sensory processing, motor coordination, emotional regulation, and self-care needs.
* Encourage independence, resilience, and participation in learning and daily routines.
* Help children develop functional skills in areas such as handwriting, organization, dressing, feeding, and play.
* Use therapeutic activities to aid children in developing attention, concentration, and regulation strategies.
Support to Occupational Therapists
* Carry out therapy activities and intervention plans as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
* Assist in the preparation and adaptation of resources, equipment, and environments to meet pupils' needs.
* Contribute to observations and records of pupils' progress to inform ongoing therapy planning.
* Provide feedback to the supervising therapist regarding pupil engagement, progress, and any concerns.
* Support the collection of information for assessments and reviews.
Work in Schools, the Community, and Family Homes
* Work across various schools, adapting flexibly to different settings, staff teams, and pupil needs.
* Support teachers, SENCOs, and support staff in embedding therapy strategies into daily school routines.
* Demonstrate and model activities for school staff to implement with pupils.
* Contribute to the development of inclusive classroom practices and the creation of supportive learning environments.
* Assist in identifying environmental or organisational adaptations that facilitate access to learning.
Family and Professional Liaison
* Communicate appropriately and sensitively with parents, carers, and school staff regarding the aims and strategies of occupational therapy interventions.
* Contribute to multi-agency meetings, reviews, and discussions when appropriate, under the guidance of the supervising therapist.
Administration and Record-Keeping
* Maintain accurate records of sessions, observations, and pupil responses, in line with organisational policies and data protection requirements.
* Assist with the preparation of therapy materials, visual supports, and resources.
* Contribute to reports and reviews as needed.
General Responsibilities
* Work under the supervision of a qualified Occupational Therapist, following agreed plans and guidance.
* Participate in training and development to maintain skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
* Travel between schools and settings as required (a valid driving license or the ability to travel independently is essential).
* Maintain confidentiality and safeguarding standards at all times.
* Contribute to service development by sharing feedback and ideas.
Person Specification
* Experience working with children and/or young people in educational, health, or community settings.
* A good understanding of child development and learning needs.
* Ability to follow therapy programs and adapt activities creatively.
* Strong communication skills with children, staff, and families.
* Organisational skills to manage time across different schools.
* Flexibility, initiative, and a problem-solving approach.
* Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children's well-being.
* Knowledge of sensory processing, motor coordination, or social-emotional needs in children.
* Experience working with children who have additional needs such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or developmental coordination disorder.
* Familiarity with school environments and inclusive education practices.
* Relevant qualifications or training (e.g., NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Health and Social Care, or equivalent).
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