Trainee Occupational Therapist (Newly Qualified) & Learning Support Assistant
Location: Solihull
Setting: Specialist SEN School – PMLD
Contract: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience and qualifications
About the Opportunity
We are recruiting for a dedicated and compassionate Newly Qualified Occupational Therapist and Learning Support Assistant to join a specialist school in Solihull, supporting children and young people with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). The role will be working as a Learning support assistant and an Occupational therapist on a hybrid scheme.
This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about making a meaningful difference to the lives of pupils with complex physical, sensory, medical and learning needs.
The school provides a nurturing, inclusive and highly supportive learning environment where every pupil is valued and encouraged to develop their communication, independence, sensory awareness and physical abilities.
We welcome applications from newly qualified Occupational Therapists looking to develop their careers within a specialist educational setting, as well as enthusiastic Learning Support Assistants who have a genuine passion for working with children with complex needs.
Newly Qualified Occupational Therapist
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist who is keen to develop their clinical skills and experience within a specialist PMLD school environment.
Key Responsibilities
Assess pupils' individual occupational therapy needs and contribute to personalised intervention programmes.
Support the development of fine motor skills, gross motor skills and functional independence.
Deliver sensory-based activities to support pupils' sensory processing and engagement.
Support positioning, postural management and functional movement in collaboration with relevant professionals.
Contribute to pupils' access to learning, play and everyday activities.
Recommend appropriate specialist equipment and adaptations to support participation and independence.
Work collaboratively with teachers, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists and other professionals.
Contribute to EHCP outcomes, annual reviews and individual pupil progress plans.
Provide guidance and advice to school staff regarding therapeutic strategies and approaches.
Work closely with families and carers to promote consistency between school and home.
Essential Requirements
A recognised degree in Occupational Therapy.
Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), or eligibility to register before commencing practice.
Newly qualified Occupational Therapists are encouraged to apply.
A genuine interest in working with children with complex physical and learning needs.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
A compassionate, patient and flexible approach.
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Experience within paediatrics, special educational needs or complex needs would be advantageous but is not essential for the right candidate