Occupational Therapist

Furze Down School is a Specialist School in North Buckinghamshire that provides a supportive, inclusive and aspirational environment for children and young people with complex Special Educational Needs. Our provision has been recognised by Ofsted across multiple inspections, 2006, 2009, 2014, 2018 and 2024.

Our values of personal responsibility and respect have been instrumental in developing an ethos where views, beliefs and differences are appreciated and given a voice. Ofsted recognised our strong emphasis on spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, judging behaviour to be outstanding and support for families exceptional.

Our Specialist SEN Status was awarded in July 2009 in recognition of our leading practice in supporting children with Communication and Interaction difficulties, and this became the starting point for us to develop as a Centre of Excellence for SEN.

Our dynamic Therapy and Wellbeing Team includes Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Therapy Assistants, a Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Family Liaison Lead. We also support Occupational Therapy and Speech & Language Therapy apprentices as they develop their professional skills. The team is led by an experienced practitioner who ensures regular clinical supervision for all members. Continuing Professional Development is actively encouraged, with weekly opportunities to share learning, reflect on research and consider how new approaches can be integrated into practice.

All therapists are actively encouraged to grow and develop their areas of clinical interest and will be offered support to further specialise in these areas, where training is applicable to meet the needs of our pupils.

As our school grows, we are looking to expand our team of experienced Occupational Therapists. We offer a three tier model of provision within an integrated, inclusive setting, working with pupils aged 4-19 who have a wide range of educational, physical, sensory and clinical needs. Our department is wellresourced, with access to a comprehensive range of assessments and digital tools. Each therapist has an iPad to support therapy, record keeping and communication with families through platforms such as Seesaw and Google Classroom.

We are committed to providing training in Sensory Integration, supporting OTs to achieve at least Level A of the PG Certificate in Sensory Integration through Sheffield Hallam University, with opportunities to progress further where relevant to the role.

Therapists have the flexibility to complete full‑time hours during term time or to work part of the school holiday periods to manage administrative tasks, assessments and reports. Attendance on INSET and pupil days is expected.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged.  To arrange a visit please contact the school on 01296 711380 or recruitment@furzedownschool.org.uk

Please email Cheryl Parker, Clinical Lead for OT at cparker@furzedownschool.org.uk to arrange an informal chat if you would like to know more about the role.

We reserve the right to close this position earlier should sufficient applications be received before the advertised closing date. We also reserve the right to interview shortlisted candidates ahead of the closing date.

Furze Down School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check before they are appointed.

Closing Date: midday Wednesday 22 April 2026