PHYSIOTHERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT AND MANUAL HANDLING LEAD

Ideal for Graduates Exploring Careers in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy & Specialist Education

Location

Clifton Hill School, Caterham

Contract

Permanent

Start Date

As soon as possible

Hours

35.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday term time only

Working pattern

Four days per week as a Therapy Assistant and manual handling lead working across the school and one day per week class based supporting a group with high therapeutic needs

Application deadline

Monday 9 November 2026, 9am

Salary

WMAT Associate grade WA6 £25,088.13 - £29,028.08 (£30,571 - £35,372 FTE) per annum

Considering a Career in Therapy or Specialist Education?This role is an excellent first step for graduates and aspiring professionals considering careers such as:Occupational TherapyPhysiotherapyRehabilitation and Healthcare SupportSocial Care

You will gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside therapists, teachers and other professionals supporting young people with complex needs in a highly specialist school environment.

About Us

Clifton Hill School is a friendly, ambitious and highly supportive specialist school for students aged 11-19 with severe learning difficulties, autism and complex needs.

We are proud of our

Strong team culture and collaborative approachCommitment to professional developmentFocus on helping every young person achieve independence and achieve their full potential

The Role

This unique role combines therapy support and direct classroom experience.For four days each week, you will work closely with our therapy teams, supporting physiotherapy and occupational therapy programmes across the school.

This includes

Supporting therapists with therapy sessions and programmesDelivering therapy activities under professional guidanceMonitoring and recording student progressSupporting pupils during hydrotherapy sessionsLiaising with parents, therapists, nurses and class teamsAssisting with specialist equipment and positioning programmesHelping ensure students have access to the equipment and support they need to succeed

For one day each week, you will join a class team supporting students with high therapeutic and complex physical needs. This gives you the opportunity to:Build strong relationships with pupilsSupport learning and communication throughout the school dayWork as part of a multidisciplinary teamDevelop a deeper understanding of specialist education and therapeutic practiceSee how therapy interventions support learning and independence in the classroom

Why Join Us?This is far more than a support role.

It is an opportunity to

Gain experience valued by Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy degree programmesWork alongside experienced therapists and specialist teachersDevelop practical skills in therapy delivery, communication and behaviour supportBuild understanding of complex physical, medical and learning needsGain insight into multidisciplinary workingReceive excellent training and professional developmentMake a genuine difference to the lives of young people

We Welcome

Applications From People Who Are

Interested in therapy, healthcare, psychology or SEND educationCaring, patient and reflectiveEnthusiastic and motivated to learnComfortable working as part of a teamHighly organised and able to communicate effectivelyPassionate about helping young people achieve their potentialExperience working with children or young people is helpful but not essential. Your attitude, commitment and willingness to learn are what matter most.

What We OfferA warm, welcoming and supportive staff teamFull training and ongoing professional developmentDirect experience working alongside therapy professionalsOpportunities to develop specialist skillsGenerous pension schemeEmployee wellbeing supportHealth and lifestyle benefits

Apply Now

We encourage early applications and reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date.

Safeguarding Statement

Clifton Hill School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, governors and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check, health check and other safer recruitment checks, including online searches. Applications will only be accepted on our online application form. CVs will not be considered. No agencies please.