Principal Occupational Therapist
London
Permanent
Monday to Friday, 09:30–18:00
£52,000–£58,000 per annum, with a structured pay review at 6 months
Are you an experienced Paediatric Occupational Therapist with a passion for clinical leadership, team development, and shaping how exceptional therapy is delivered? We are looking for a Principal Occupational Therapist to join a specialist paediatric therapy centre in London — a role that places you at the heart of the clinical team, combining a meaningful hands-on caseload with genuine responsibility for the quality and growth of the OT service.
About the Role
This is a rare opportunity to step into a position that carries real clinical and organisational weight. You will shape how OT is practised at one of London's leading paediatric therapy clinics, develop the next generation of paediatric therapists, and deepen your own clinical expertise in Ayres Sensory Integration alongside one of the field's leading practitioners.
The Setting
A specialist paediatric therapy centre in the heart of London, where Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) is central to the clinical identity. The clinic specialises in helping children and young people aged 0 to 18 with physical, developmental, social communication, and other specific difficulties engage in meaningful occupations. The Clinic Director is an internationally recognised SI trainer and practitioner.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise a team of Band 5, 6, and 7 Occupational Therapists, providing clinical guidance and line management support to maintain high standards of practice
- Carry a clinical caseload of children with a range of neurodevelopmental and physical needs, delivering high-quality assessments and evidence-based interventions grounded in sensory integration principles
- Conduct and oversee standardised assessments including BOT-2, Movement ABC, Sensory Profile 2, and ABAS, producing clear reports for EHCP, tribunal, and clinical purposes
- Apply and model strong clinical reasoning across the team, supporting junior OTs to develop their analytical skills and professional judgement
- Oversee the quality of assessments, interventions, and progress documentation across the team, including fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, and activities of daily living
- Design and implement specialist intervention programmes for clients with complex needs, including sensory integration therapy
- Deliver home and school recommendations and implement interventions to support children across various environments
- Provide clinical supervision and professional development to junior staff including Band 5/6 OTs, while fostering a supportive team environment
- Communicate therapy plans and progress effectively to parents and professionals, ensuring consistency and quality across the team
- Conduct online therapy sessions for clients who cannot attend in person
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team including Speech and Language Therapists, Psychologists, Educators, and Administrative Staff
- Participate in strategic service development and contribute to the clinic's overall goals
What We're Looking For
- A Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy and current HCPC registration
- A minimum of 5 years' experience in occupational therapy, with at least 2 years in a paediatric setting
- Previous experience in a senior, lead, or supervisory role is essential
- A certificate in sensory integration, or demonstrable sensory integration experience and a commitment to pursuing formal ASI qualification
- Experience with standardised paediatric assessments including BOT-2, Movement ABC, and sensory profiling tools (or willingness to develop proficiency)
- Eligibility to work in the UK (sponsorship may be available)
Training and Development
- Comprehensive onboarding programme tailored to your needs
- Immersive training in standardised paediatric assessments including BOT-2, Movement ABC, and sensory profiling tools
- Structured clinical reasoning development working alongside the Clinic Director
- Access to a two-year Ayres Sensory Integration training programme, delivered directly by the Clinic Director
- Opportunities to supervise, train, and mentor junior OTs and clinical placements
- Ongoing clinical supervision and peer reflection
- CPD funding and access to specialist training programmes
Benefits
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a 24/7 General Practitioner
- Legal Assistance — 24/7 legal support for personal legal issues
- Fitness discounts, including access to over 3,600 health clubs
- Lifestyle discounts across a wide range of categories
- Funded Ayres Sensory Integration training delivered by the Clinic Director
- CPD funding and specialist training support
- Structured six-month salary review