About The Role
We are a network of independent specialist educational schools dedicated to supporting children with diverse learning needs. Our inclusive environment empowers each child to reach their full potential. As part of a new nationwide initiative, we are recruiting Regional Occupational Therapists to join us and create this exciting new team.
Job Overview
As a Regional Occupational Therapist in the Peterborough area you will play a pivotal role in assessing, planning, and delivering occupational therapy services for students with diverse needs across a group of independent special schools. You will work closely with the Regional SENDCo, Regional Speech and Language Therapist, educational team, families, and external professionals to promote student success, independence, and well‑being. The role is term‑time only, 20 hours per week, with flexibility in the days worked and occasional travel across the designated region to provide therapy and consultation services at each school. You will visit around five schools every six weeks, with the rest of the time working from home. Travel contributions are provided.
Key Responsibilities
* Assessment and Evaluation
Conduct comprehensive assessments of students’ physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities to identify therapeutic needs, including fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.
* Therapeutic Interventions
Develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on assessment results, incorporating strategies to improve students’ functional abilities in the classroom, at home, and in the community.
* Collaboration
Work closely with the Regional SENDCo and OT Champions in schools, teachers, special education staff, school leadership, and other professionals (speech therapists, psychologists, social workers) to develop integrated support plans for students.
* Progress Monitoring
Track and document student progress toward therapy goals and adjust treatment plans as necessary. Provide regular updates to school teams and parents.
* Parent and Caregiver Support
Provide guidance and training to parents and caregivers, offering practical strategies to support their child’s development at home.
* Schoolwide Training
Offer in‑service training for staff on topics related to sensory integration, classroom adaptations, and other occupational therapy practices to enhance the learning environment.
* Case Management
Maintain thorough and accurate records of assessments, progress, and communications with families and school teams, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
* Safeguarding
Recognise that safeguarding is paramount and report concerns appropriately to the senior member of the school you are working in (Headteacher, Regional Director of Education, along with the Regional SENDCo), in line with safeguarding policy.
* Travel & Flexibility
Primarily work from home, with travel between schools within the region. Flexibility is required for school visits due to varying schedules.
Qualifications & Requirements
* Education
Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
* Licensure
Valid and current state licensure or certification as an Occupational Therapist.
* Experience
o Previous experience working with children, particularly in special education settings, is highly preferred.
o Experience in providing therapy for students with various disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), physical disabilities, and sensory processing disorders.
o Experience in a multi‑disciplinary team environment is an asset.
o Experience with sensory integration is desired.
* Skills & Abilities
o Strong knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy practices, including sensory integration and assistive technology.
o Ability to develop individualized therapy plans and goals for diverse students.
o Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with staff, families, and external partners.
o Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage a caseload across multiple school sites.
o Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
o Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices.
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