Exceptional People Deserve Exceptional Staff
About Shaftesbury Statement
Shaftesbury is a disability charity offering care, education, vocational and rehab services. The charity also provides residential care, nursing and supported living.
Within the education sector, Shaftesbury has one school, Shaftesbury Victoria School, and 2 further education colleges, Shaftesbury Millie College and Shaftesbury Nash College. The school is for students aged 3-19, and the colleges are for students aged 16-25. All students have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), as well as physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and some have profound and complex learning needs.
About the Roles
Due to growth, we are looking for clinically qualified therapists in the disciplines of Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language, and Physiotherapy. Roles may be based at one of our settings or across sites working with children and young people.
These roles are an exciting opportunity to work for a national charity as part of a skilled multi-disciplinary team. You will contribute to innovative therapy programmes, including the opportunity for animal-assisted therapy, and play a key role in shaping a supportive, inclusive environment.
Clinically qualified therapists, whether in Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Physiotherapy help unlock each learner’s potential, ensuring they can access education, develop independence, and thrive both in and beyond the classroom. Every day brings new opportunities to make a real difference in their lives.
Your expertise will directly impact their communication, mobility, and daily living skills, helping them achieve goals set out in their EHCP.
The successful candidates will be enthusiastic, self-motivated, and empathetic professionals with a genuine passion for supporting children and young people with complex needs. They will demonstrate excellent teamwork, communication, and organisational skills, show resilience and adaptability in a dynamic environment, and be committed to safeguarding, equality, and evidence-based practice.
Flexibility and a desire to make a real difference in the lives of students are essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively to deliver high-quality, impactful therapy.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver therapy at universal and targeted levels, including individual, paired, and group sessions tailored to each student’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
* Assess, diagnose, and support students with complex communication, physical, and sensory needs, developing and adapting specialist therapy plans throughout the academic year.
* Provide specialist advice and contribute to multidisciplinary teams, including leading staff training and supporting evidence-based practice.
* Coordinate and provide therapy reports and participate in annual reviews, maintain professional standards, and ensure accurate, up-to-date records in line with safeguarding and equality requirements.
* Advise on and support the use of specialist equipment, and collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create accessible, communication-friendly environments.
* Contribute to innovative therapy programmes, such as animal-assisted therapy, integrating therapy activities into daily routines and the curriculum.
Essential Skills & Qualifications
* Recognised qualification in relevant therapy and HCPC registration.
* Experience working with children and young people with complex needs is desirable.
* Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills.
* Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and evidence-based practice.
* Enthusiasm, resilience and a desire to change the lives of others
Why Join Us?
As a member of the Shaftesbury Education therapy team, you will have opportunities to lead staff training, contribute to innovative therapy programmes (including animal-assisted therapy), and provide specialist advice that shapes the lives of children and young people with complex needs. Whether you are helping a student find their voice, develop independence in daily living, or achieve new milestones in mobility, you will see the direct impact of your expertise every day. No two days are the same, and you will finish each one knowing you have made a real difference. You will be supported by a passionate team, ongoing professional development, and the chance to be part of a truly inclusive and forward-thinking community.
Safeguarding
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Shaftesbury Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and staff. It is the responsibility of all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check and will follow our rigorous safer recruitment processes.
Equality and Diversity
Shaftesbury is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
Shaftesbury aims to create and sustain an inclusive work environment which provides equality of opportunity for everyone and reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. The post holder is required to uphold the Equality and Diversity policy and comply with the code of conduct which sets out our standards of behaviour towards those who use our services or work within them.
Application Process
Job description and application form available on request please contact VECHR@victoria.poole.sch.uk
Closing date: 14 November 2025
Interview Dates: To be confirmed
Early applications are strongly encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the advert should we feel able to appoint an appropriate candidate before the above dates.
Visits to the setting are welcomed, by arrangement. Please contact VECHR@victoria.poole.sch.uk