Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Location: East London (Community-Based / Alternative Provision)
Salary: Competitive daily rate (long-term agency contract)
Contract: Full-time, Term Time Only
Start Date: April 2026

The Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and compassionate Occupational Therapist (OT) to support children and young people within a specialist, community-based provision across East London.

This is a unique opportunity to deliver therapeutic, person-centred support outside of a traditional clinical or classroom environment, working with pupils who may struggle to engage in mainstream education due to complex needs, including neurodiversity and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges.

The role involves delivering personalised occupational therapy interventions in real-world settings such as homes, libraries, and community spaces. The position is offered on a long-term agency basis, with strong potential to transition into a permanent role.

The successful candidate will support pupils to develop independence, functional life skills, sensory regulation, and confidence, enabling them to re-engage with education and everyday activities.

Key Responsibilities

The Occupational Therapist will:

* Deliver specialist occupational therapy assessments and interventions aligned with EHCP targets

* Support pupils with sensory processing, motor skills, and daily living skills

* Develop personalised intervention plans, including sensory strategies and programmes

* Deliver therapeutic support in community-based settings using creative and practical approaches

* Support pupils to build independence, emotional regulation, and engagement in learning

* Monitor, assess, and evaluate progress, producing clear reports and recommendations

* Work collaboratively with education staff, families, and multi-disciplinary professionals

* Conduct and review risk assessments for all off-site interventions

* Maintain accurate, GDPR-compliant records and documentation

* Ensure all safeguarding policies and procedures are followed at all times

Why Join This Opportunity?

* Meaningful Impact: Support young people to develop independence and life skills

* Dynamic Working Environment: Deliver therapy in real-world, community-based settings

* Professional Development: Gain experience within a multi-disciplinary, therapeutic framework

* Career Progression: Opportunity for a permanent role following a successful placement

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a proactive and empathetic Occupational Therapist with experience supporting children and young people with complex needs.

Essential requirements:

* Recognised Occupational Therapy qualification

* Registration with the HCPC

* Experience working with children and young people with SEMH needs and/or neurodiversity

* Strong understanding of safeguarding and inclusive practice

Desirable:

* Experience working in community or alternative provision settings

* Knowledge of sensory integration and trauma-informed approaches

* Experience working within multi-disciplinary teams

Key skills and attributes:

* Ability to build strong, trusting relationships with young people

* A flexible and creative approach to therapy delivery

* Strong communication and organisational skills

* Ability to work independently in dynamic environments

* Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice

About the Organisation

Our client is a specialist provider supporting children and young people with complex needs, including social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Their approach focuses on delivering personalised, therapeutic support that promotes independence, engagement, and positive long-term outcomes.

Safeguarding Statement

Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be required to undergo appropriate safeguarding checks, including enhanced DBS, barred list, and qualification verification.

If you feel this would be the ideal vacancy for you, then please apply below or contact our team direct and ask for John Stokes @ SENCare Recruitment.

SENCare Recruitment is fully committed to the safety and welfare of children, and by applying for this vacancy, you are consenting to SENCare Recruitment Ltd storing your personal details in line with the new GDPR regulations