Occupational Therapy Assistant

To protect our autistic pupils and young adults within the National Autistic Society, all employees will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks which will include additional references and criminal background checks. Join Us as an Occupational Therapy Assistant At the National Autistic Society, we support autistic children and young people to access education, develop independence, and achieve meaningful outcomes. We are looking for an Occupational Therapy Assistant to join the team at Robert Ogden School. About the School Robert Ogden School provides a safe, caring, and supportive environment for autistic pupils and young people. The school offers bright, low-arousal spaces and an individualised approach to learning. Our Inclusive Learning Hub supports pupils with more complex needs through calm, consistent, and personalised practice. About the Role As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will support the delivery of occupational therapy within the school day under the supervision of a registered Occupational Therapist. You will help pupils to access learning, develop functional skills, build independence, and take part in everyday school activities. This is a practical, pupil-focused role that involves working closely with therapists, teachers, and support staff to embed therapy strategies into daily routines and classroom practice. What You'll Do

• Support pupils to access the curriculum and wider school day
• Deliver therapy activities and programmes planned by the Occupational Therapist
• Prepare and organise therapy resources and equipment
• Observe pupils and share feedback with the Occupational Therapist and school staff
• Support the use of strategies that promote independence, regulation, sensory processing, and fine motor development
• Maintain clear and accurate records as directed
• Work collaboratively with education and therapy staff to provide consistent support
• Contribute to a safe, structured, and supportive environment for pupils
  
  Experience of working with children or young people with additional needs
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work well as part of a team
• A calm, flexible, and positive approach
• Good organisation and attention to detail
• Understanding of professional boundaries, safeguarding, and confidentiality
• Ability to work in a respectful, non-confrontational, and pupil-centred way
  
  This is a permanent full-time role for 35 hours a week, term-time.
What we can offer you
• Pension - auto-enrolled pension scheme
• Training - induction, autism training, and ongoing development
• Discounts - staff discounts for shopping, tech, cycling, and more
• Healthcare - cash plan for permanent staff
• Life Assurance - 2x base salary
• Flexible Benefits - options including health, dental, holiday trading, and enhanced pension
• Support - 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme and counselling
• Mindfulness - free Headspace app for you and up to 3 family or friends
• Blue Light Card - eligibility for discounts