Job Description

Occupational Therapist

Location:

Overstone Park School, Northampton

Contract Type:

Part-time / Term time only

Salary:

Competitive, dependent on experience

Reports to:

SENCo / Head of Therapy and Inclusion

Purpose of the Role:

To provide a high-quality Occupational Therapy service to pupils at Overstone Park School, supporting their access to learning, functional independence, and personal development.



The postholder will independently manage a caseload of pupils with a range of physical, sensory, and developmental needs, using evidence-based, child-centred approaches.


They will work as part of the school's

multidisciplinary team

, which includes Speech and Language Therapists, Behaviour Mentors, SEN staff, and teachers, ensuring therapy is integrated into the educational experience of every pupil.

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Practice:

Independently manage a defined caseload of pupils with diverse and complex needs. Conduct detailed assessments to identify barriers to participation and functional performance in self-care, learning, and play. Develop, deliver, and evaluate individualised therapy programmes to promote independence, access to education, and well-being. Plan and implement interventions in individual, small-group, or classroom-based settings. Use a range of standardised and non-standardised assessments, clinical reasoning, and activity analysis to support evidence-based practice. Prescribe and assess the use of adaptive equipment, seating, and sensory regulation tools to support pupil needs. Monitor and review therapy outcomes, adjusting programmes as appropriate.
Ensure documentation is accurate, comprehensive, and maintained in line with HCPC, RCOT, and school policy standards.

Collaboration and Teamwork:

Work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants, and other professionals to embed therapy goals into classroom practice. Contribute to multidisciplinary meetings, EHCP reviews, and care planning discussions. Provide professional advice and guidance to staff and parents to support consistent approaches to pupils' occupational needs.
Participate in joint sessions and planning with Speech and Language Therapists, Behaviour Mentors, and SENCo to ensure cohesive support for each pupil.

Leadership and Supervision:

Provide day-to-day guidance and supervision to Occupational Therapy Assistants or student therapists. Support the induction and mentoring of junior colleagues and trainee practitioners. Take an active role in the professional development of the therapy team through knowledge sharing, in-service training, and reflective practice. Contribute to the setting and maintenance of quality standards within the therapy service.
Deputise for the Lead Therapist when required.

Communication and Record Keeping:

Communicate clearly, compassionately, and professionally with pupils, parents, staff, and external agencies. Adapt communication to meet the needs of pupils with speech, language, or cognitive difficulties. Provide detailed written reports, therapy plans, and progress updates to support EHCPs and annual reviews. Maintain confidentiality and comply with GDPR and safeguarding regulations at all times.
Contribute to reports for external professionals (e.g. Local Authority, NHS clinicians) when required.

Service Development and Innovation:

Support the ongoing development of the therapy provision at Overstone Park School, ensuring alignment with national SEND and therapeutic standards. Review and evaluate service delivery, identifying opportunities for improvement and innovation. Participate in school-wide projects that enhance sensory regulation, physical development, and access to the curriculum.
Manage therapy resources and equipment responsibly and ensure safe usage and storage.

Training and Professional Development:

Deliver training workshops and CPD sessions for school staff on sensory integration, fine and gross motor skills, handwriting, and other OT-related topics. Participate in regular clinical supervision and maintain a CPD portfolio in accordance with RCOT and HCPC guidelines. Keep knowledge and skills up to date through research, professional reading, and attendance at relevant training.
Reflect critically on own practice and engage in performance reviews with the SENCo or Head of Therapy.

Safeguarding and Compliance:

Adhere to

Overstone Park School's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

at all times. Maintain professional boundaries and act with integrity and discretion when supporting pupils. Report any concerns regarding pupil welfare in line with school procedures. Comply with statutory requirements under the

Children and Families Act 2014

,

SEND Code of Practice

, and

Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)

. Maintain registration with the

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

and membership with the

Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT)

.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

BSc/MSc in Occupational Therapy. HCPC registration (essential). Experience working with children and young people with physical, sensory, or developmental needs. Knowledge of current best practices in paediatric occupational therapy.
Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.

Desirable Skills:

Experience in an educational or special school setting. Training or experience in sensory integration, handwriting programmes, or assistive technology.
Experience developing resources and supporting EHCP reviews.

Personal Attributes:

Empathetic, approachable, and child-centred in all practice. Proactive in promoting inclusion and independence. Resilient and adaptable in a busy, varied school environment.
Committed to continuous improvement and reflective practice.

Safeguarding Statement:

Overstone Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.

All appointments are subject to:

Enhanced

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

clearance. Verification of the

right to work in the UK.

Satisfactory references. Online and social media screening.
Medical and suitability checks.


Applicants must declare any unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings under the

Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975

.

Application Process:

Applications must be made via the school's official recruitment process.

CVs will not be accepted.

For further information, please contact:

Overstone Park School, Northampton

About Overstone Park School:

A non-selective independent school registered with DFE and ISI for boys and girls aged 5 to 18 years.