CLASS EDUCATION LIMITED

Occupational Therapist Primary and Secondary - SEN (SEMH/ASD/LD) Location: Hertfordshire and CBC (across trust schools) Contract: Permanent - Full time Salary: £35,000-£47,000 (Band 5-6 equivalent, depending on experience) Hours: 32 hours Term time only Reports to: Senior Leader/ SENCO Start Date: As soon as possible Job Purpose As an Occupational Therapist, you will deliver high-quality, specialist OT provision across both primary and secondary SEN/SEMH/ASD/LD settings. The role focuses on enabling pupils to access learning, regulate effectively, develop independence, and participate meaningfully in school life. The post-holder will be an integral part of the multi-disciplinary team, providing direct therapy, assessments, staff training, equipment recommendations, and strategic therapeutic input across the trust. Key Responsibilities Clinical practice and intervention Provide high quality occupational therapy interventions for pupils across primary and secondary phases. Deliver direct therapy as outlined in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Deliver targeted small group and whole class interventions to support sensory regulation, functional skills, participation and independence. Develop and review personalised therapy plans in collaboration with staff and families. Embed OT strategies within the curriculum by modelling practice and coaching teachers/support staff. Maintain professional standards in line with HCPC and RCOT guidelines. Assessment and equipment Carry out comprehensive functional, sensory and environmental assessments using evidence based tools. Identify the need for specialist equipment and make recommendations for purchase. Set up, monitor and adjust equipment to ensure safe and effective use. Train staff and parents on appropriate and safe use of equipment. Maintain oversight of equipment safety, suitability and reporting. Staff training, support and capacity building Plan and deliver high quality training for staff, including INSET, workshops, and informal coaching. Support teachers and support staff to integrate OT strategies into daily routines and classroom practice. Provide advice to staff on pupils' sensory, physical, emotional and functional needs. Work closely with SENCOs, intervention and pastoral teams and leaders to build sustainable therapeutic practice across settings. Professional standards Uphold the trust's values, policies and safeguarding responsibilities. Keep accurate, up-to-date clinical records and reports in line with HCPC standards. Prepare clear written reports for review meetings, professionals and families. Manage your own caseload, time and priorities effectively. Engage in professional development, supervision and reflective practice. Stay informed of current research, legislation and evidence-based approaches in educational OT. Multi-disciplinary working Participate in multi-disciplinary meetings, assessments and reviews. Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, leaders, therapists and external agencies. Contribute specialist knowledge to behaviour support planning, environmental adaptations and curriculum access. Support transitions between key stages, provisions or schools. Offer specialist guidance to parents and carers when appropriate. Communication and documentation Maintain accurate clinical documentation and data in line with GDPR requirements. Communicate clearly with pupils, families and professionals. Provide specialist advice during EHCP reviews, annual reviews and planning meetings. Produce reports that inform school practice, family understanding and statutory processes. Health, safety and safeguarding Comply with all trust policies including Safeguarding, Child Protection, Behaviour, Whistleblowing and Health and Safety. Maintain safe working practices in all therapy activities. Report any safeguarding concerns immediately in line with policy. Professional development Maintain current registration with Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) or other relevant professional body Participate in regular supervision (clinical and managerial). Pursue CPD relevant to SEMH, ASD, sensory integration, LD, and educational practice. Contribute to trust wide development, pilot projects, and continuous improvement initiatives. Person specification Qualifications Degree or master's in occupational therapy (essential) HCPC registration or other relevant professional body (essential) Experience Experience working with children/young people with SEN (essential) Experience in school or educational settings (desirable) Experience in multi-disciplinary teams (essential) Experience training or coaching staff (desirable) Knowledge and skills Strong understanding of sensory needs, regulation and functional skill development Ability to conduct a variety of assessments Knowledge of specialist OT equipment Excellent communication and report writing skills Understanding of the EHCP process Ability to manage caseloads across multiple sites- currently Stevenage, Baldock and Dunstable Personal qualities Positive, solution-focused and adaptable Reflective, professional and committed to CPD Strong relationship builder with staff, pupils and families Committed to inclusive, trauma informed and pupil centred practice High integrity and strong safeguarding awareness