Occupational Therapist

National Autistic Society; England; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension – Auto-enrolled pension scheme

Induction and autism training

Staff discounts

Cash plan for permanent staff

Life Assurance

Flexible benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Headspace access

Blue Light Card

Job summary

The National Autistic Society is seeking an Occupational Therapist to join a transdisciplinary team delivering a neuroaffirming, evidence-informed OT service for autistic children and young people. You will contribute to holistic assessments, intervention planning, and collaborative care within a supportive school environment.

The role offers supervision, CPD opportunities, and a strong team culture to enhance outcomes for pupils and families.

Qualifications

• HCPC registration is mandatory.
• RCOT membership is required.
• Neuroaffirming, strengths-based, evidence-informed practice preferred.
• Collaborative, transdisciplinary working.
• Strong communication and organisational skills; reflective practice.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to delivery of a high-quality OT service for autistic children and young people.
• Work within a transdisciplinary team to support pupils and families.
• Participate in supervision, CPD and team learning to improve outcomes.

Skills

HCPC registered

RCOT member

neuroaffirming

transdisciplinary

communication

organisational

reflective practice

compassionate

Job description

Job Introduction

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 Therapist

At the National Autistic Society, we provide services that support autistic children and young people. You will join a transdisciplinary team, contributing to the delivery of a high-quality, neuroaffirming, evidence-informed Occupational Therapy service for autistic children and young people with diverse profiles and associated needs,

About the School

Sybil Elgar is an outstanding specialist school for autistic children and young people aged 4 ½ to 22 years old. We have over 50 years experience in providing a holistic and personalised education within a caring and safe environment. Our creative approach, and focus on independent life skills help every autistic child to learn and develop.

About the Role

• Is HCPC registered and a member of RCOT
• Has experience (or a strong interest) in working with autistic children and young people
• Is committed to neuroaffirming, strengths-based, and evidence-informed practice
• Enjoys collaborative, transdisciplinary working
• Has strong communication, organisational, and reflective practice skills
• Is motivated, compassionate, and committed to improving outcomes for pupils and families

Whether you are developing your specialist autism experience or bringing established expertise, you will be supported through supervision, CPD, and a strong team culture.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Is patient, kind, and supportive
• Understands that people communicate, learn, and experience the world in different ways
• Works well with pupils, families, and colleagues
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Is flexible, proactive, and positive

Most importantly, we are looking for someone who genuinely cares about children and young people and brings empathy, commitment, and consistency to their work every day.

This role is a permanent contract (35 hours per week) with 12 weeks paid holiday a year, which must be taken within the existing school holidays for your school. This is to ensure our pupils receive the continuous support they require while at school.

What we can offer you

• Pension – Auto-enrolled pension scheme.
• Training – Great induction and training, including autism training.
• Discounts – Online staff discount scheme for shopping, cycling, tech, and more (e.g., Asda, Tesco, Nike, Apple).
• Healthcare – Cash plan for permanent staff.
• Life Assurance – 2x your base salary.
• Flexible Benefits – Options like private health, dental insurance, holiday trading, enhanced pension.
• Support – 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme and counselling.
• Mindfulness – Free Headspace app for you and up to 3 family/friends.
• Blue Light Card – Eligibility for discounts.

Applications for this job are sought from anyone who is suitably qualified and experienced for the role but particularly welcome from autistic people.

The National Autistic Society is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and as such expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks.

We are an equal opportunities employer and part of the Disability Confident Employer scheme.

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.

Important Information

Agencies need not apply.

Please note the National Autistic Society are unable to provide sponsorship for Visas.

The National Autistic Society may use artificial intelligence (AI) to assist our recruitment team with reviewing applications for this role. All application decisions are made by people and are not determined automatically by AI.

We are an equal opportunities employer and part of the Disability Confident Employer scheme.