We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to join our therapy team, supporting students across all school sites. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of a qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) to deliver intervention programmes, helping students develop essential skills for learning and daily life.
About New Forest School
New Forest School is an independent specialist school on the edge of the New Forest, Hampshire, catering for children aged 8-16 with complex needs, including Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC), attachment difficulties, and trauma-related challenges. We provide a therapeutic and trauma-informed approach to learning, ensuring that each student receives the support they need to succeed.
Please note: The company is unable to sponsor employment of international workers in this role. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We also require you to have driving licence and car for this role, as you will be covering different sites.
Key Responsibilities
- Work independently to carry out OT-led intervention plans and goals, ensuring that students receive consistent support.
- Deliver structured OT interventions, including sensory circuits, movement breaks, fine motor programmes, and Zones of Regulation activities, as directed by the OT.
- Support students in developing self-regulation, motor coordination, handwriting, and daily living skills.
- Monitor student engagement and progress, providing regular feedback to the OT.
- Assist in the review of students' needs, ensuring interventions are appropriately tailored.
- Liaise with the OT, Clinical Services Team, Teaching Staff, and wider school staff to integrate therapeutic strategies into the school day.
- Maintain accurate documentation, including session notes and progress reports.
- Support in setting up and maintaining therapy resources, sensory spaces, and equipment.
- Promote a positive and supportive environment, encouraging students to engage in activities with confidence.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience working with children and young people with autism, sensory processing differences, and SEMH needs.
- Confidence in working independently to carry out OT-led interventions and goals.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with the OT, clinical services team, school staff, care homes and families.
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail, particularly in maintaining accurate records.
- Ability to adapt activities to meet individual student needs.
- A proactive and flexible approach to working in a multi-disciplinary team.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience supporting Zones of Regulation, fine motor skills, knowledge of sensory integration, and/ or movement-based interventions.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and working with children who have experienced adverse life experiences.
- An understanding of assistive tools and equipment used in OT (e.g., wobble cushions, weighted items, adapted writing tools).
What We Offer
- A supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Opportunities for training and professional development in occupational therapy approaches.
- The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.
- Regular clinical supervision.
If you are passionate about helping children develop essential skills and would like to be part of a dynamic therapy team, we would love to hear from you!
Please note: The company is unable to sponsor employment of international workers in this role. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We also require you to have driving licence and car for this role, as you will be covering different sites.
New Forest Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Children and Young People, applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate child protection screening, including employment references and DBS check.
INDCS
