Children's Occupational Therapist

If you are a newly qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) or an experienced OT looking to develop specialist skills in children's occupational therapy, then Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) has posts that could be just right for you. Due to internal progression, Children and Young People's Therapies (CYPT) are pleased to be able to offer an opportunity for full time and part time Children's Occupational Therapists to be based in the West part of Hertfordshire, ie. Hemel Hempstead; St Albans; and in Watford.

We are looking for dynamic, enthusiastic and creative Occupational Therapists to be a part of our well-established teams. You will be joining an innovative and agile CYPT Service, that is committed to delivering high quality intervention, and to supporting the development and delivery of the new Experts at Hand model across Hertfordshire.

HCT provides integrated Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Services for families across the county. Our CYPT integrated service provides opportunities for collaborative working, joint training and shared learning amongst each profession. Our service is jointly commissioned by health, social care and education, allowing us to provide a seamless pathway of care from early years through to schools, specialist provisions and further education settings, and at home.

• Proposed interview date: 3rd November 2026*

Our integrated service provides opportunities for collaborative working, joint training and shared learning amongst each profession. We work closely with colleagues in education, with well-established relationships.

The successful applicant will be expected to hold an 0-25 years caseload, providing a service which meets both the health and education Occupational Therapy needs of CYP, providing interventions in a variety of settings, e.g. mainstream settings, specialist provisions, pre-school settings and clinics.

Ideally applicants should have post graduate experience/training in assessment and treatment of clients with neurological conditions; learning disability; neurodiverse conditions. We have a Practice Development Lead with dedicated time to support and upskill new band 5-6 staff. Training will be provided in areas where further up skilling and development is required.

We Can Offer

• Regular group supervision, managerial supervision, a well-established appraisal system, and an award winning preceptorship programme for newly qualified therapists
• CPD opportunities, including in service masterclasses
• Opportunities to develop leadership skills and to supervise less experienced members of staff
• Opportunities to work alongside other therapists/assistants to deliver intervention to children/young people requiring specialist support
• An initial induction period where you will have the opportunity to observe and shadow your team.

We’re delighted that you're exploring a career with HCT. As an organisation, we’re committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and rewarding work environment — one where you’ll feel valued and empowered to make a real difference.

At HCT, we put patients, their families, and carers at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is simple yet powerful: Outstanding Services and Healthier Communities. Our dedicated staff take pride in being Pioneering, Caring, and Inclusive, working together to turn this vision into reality.

Working with us comes with a host of benefits designed to support your wellbeing and work-life balance:

• Generous annual leave (27 days rising to 33 with long service)
• Flexible working arrangements to help balance personal/ professional life, including up to 5 days of carers leave (pro rata)
• Employee Assistance Programme offering 24/7 confidential support for personal or work-related issues
• Cycle to Work and Car Lease Schemes
• Blue Light Card and NHS Discounts
• Health and wellbeing support, including free flu jabs, Physiotherapy referrals, eye care vouchers, etc
• Occupational Pension Scheme with competitive benefits
• Enhanced sick pay above statutory entitlements

We celebrate diversity and actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds, ages, and communities to apply.

You’ve taken a fantastic first step by considering HCT. We’re excited about the possibility of welcoming you to our team and taking the next step in your journey with us.

For further details / informal visits contact: Name: Hayley Moore Job title: Team Lead, Watford Email address: hayley.moore9@nhs.net

Alison Churchouse

Team Lead, West

alison.churchouse@nhs.net