About Us
Furze Down is an outstanding special school based across two sites in Winslow and Buckingham.  We provide education for 220 pupils aged 4–19 with communication and interaction differences. We are incredibly proud of our nurturing, inclusive environment, where our multi-disciplinary teams place pupils and families at the heart of everything we do.

Our vision is “to promote our inclusive philosophy, so all thrive and flourish.”  We value personal responsibility and respect, fostering an ethos where every individual’s views, beliefs and differences are recognised and celebrated. 

Due to school expansion, we are excited to welcome experienced Occupational Therapists who are passionate about inclusive, pupil‑centred practice to join our Therapy and Wellbeing team to support across Primary, KS3, KS4 and 6th Form.  This is a great opportunity to be part of something special and contribute to our culture, curriculum and future success.

Why Join Furze Down?

• A warm, inclusive and highly supportive school community.
• The opportunity to work alongside inspiring children and young people and make a meaningful difference.
• A strong, multidisciplinary team working collaboratively in the best interests of pupils and their families.
• Access to extensive, personalised professional development for all staff.
• Opportunities to develop skills, gain qualifications and explore clear career pathways.
• A positive culture that values wellbeing, mutual respect and professional trust
• Our work is underpinned by our values:

-Respect for Self
- Respect for Others
- Respect for Learning
- Respect for the Environment
- Respect for Actions

About the role

·         Our dynamic multidisciplinary team includes Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Therapy Assistants, a Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Family Liaison Lead.

·         The team also supports Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy apprentices as they develop their professional skills. Leadership is provided by an experienced practitioner who ensures regular clinical supervision and a strong focus on reflective practice.

·         Therapists are supported to grow and develop their areas of clinical interest, including opportunities to further specialise where training aligns with the needs of our pupils.

·         We operate a three‑tier model of provision, and our department is well resourced, with access to a comprehensive range of assessments and digital tools.

·         We are committed to developing high‑quality sensory practice and will support Occupational Therapists to achieve at least Level A of the Postgraduate Certificate in Sensory Integration through Sheffield Hallam University, with opportunities to progress further where relevant to the role.

·         The role offers flexibility, with the option to work full‑time hours during term time or to work part of the school holiday periods to support administrative tasks, assessments and reports. Attendance at INSET days and pupil days is expected.

·         An example of a Band 6 Job description is attached

What we are looking for

We are looking for Occupational Therapists who:

• Are qualified and HCPC‑registered Occupational Therapists with relevant experience
• Share our commitment to inclusive, child‑centred and trauma‑informed practice
• Are motivated to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Value reflective practice and ongoing professional development
• Are keen to develop specialist interests that support the needs of our pupils
• Are confident using digital tools to support therapy, record‑keeping and communication
• Bring a flexible, proactive and solution‑focused approach to their work
  
  
  
  

Safeguarding and Equality

Furze Down School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, references and pre‑employment Occupational Health assessment.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the school.

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.

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 

 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.