Location: North West London
Start Date: January 2026
Contract: Ongoing, Full-Time (Locum)
Rate: Up to £40 per hour, dependent on experience (DOE)
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join a brand-new Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, opening in January 2026. The school will provide a supportive, inclusive learning environment for children and young adults aged 3–19 with severe or profound learning difficulties, which may include autism and/or multi-sensory impairments.
The school will open with an initial cohort of pupils transferring from other educational settings and is projected to grow to around 180 pupils by 2028/29. This is a unique opportunity to be part of the founding team shaping a new, purpose-built provision from the ground up.
We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Locum Occupational Therapist (OT) to join the school’s growing multidisciplinary team. The postholder will play a key role in supporting pupils’ access to learning, functional independence, and sensory regulation, contributing to their holistic development and well-being.
Assess and identify the occupational therapy needs of pupils with complex and diverse presentations, including sensory and physical needs.
Develop and implement individualised OT programmes, working collaboratively with teaching and therapy staff to embed strategies into daily routines.
Provide direct intervention and consultative support to staff and families to promote functional skills, sensory integration, and engagement in meaningful activities.
Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes and annual reviews, providing professional advice and reports.
Support the development of therapeutic spaces, resources, and equipment suitable for pupils with a range of needs.
Liaise with external agencies and health professionals to ensure continuity of care and support.
Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to the evolving therapeutic provision within a new and expanding school community.
HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist.
Experience working with children and young people with severe or profound learning difficulties, autism, or multi-sensory impairment.
Strong knowledge of sensory processing, motor development, and functional skill training in educational or paediatric settings.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to adapt practice in a newly developing school environment.
Commitment to inclusive education and person-centred practice.
Competitive hourly rate – up to £40 per hour (DOE).
Ongoing, full-time locum role with potential for long-term continuity.
Opportunity to be part of a founding team shaping a new SEN provision.
Access to modern facilities and a multidisciplinary team environment.
Supportive leadership and opportunities for professional growth.
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