Occupational Therapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Occupational Therapist
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Practice Now »What is a Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist helps people of all ages with disabilities, injuries, or certain health conditions through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They may create strategies to help children in special education classrooms engage more effectively in school activities and improve their skills.
Skills
- Knowledge of special education laws and regulations
- Ability to assess and evaluate students' individual needs
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with students, parents, and other professionals
- Proficiency in developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs)
- Expertise in using adaptive equipment and assistive technology to support students' learning and development
- Ability to create and modify activities and interventions to meet students' specific goals
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address students' challenges and barriers to learning
- Patience and empathy to work effectively with students with diverse learning abilities and behavioral needs
- Ability to provide guidance and support to classroom teachers and other staff members in implementing strategies for students with special needs
- Continuous professional development to stay updated with the latest research and best practices in special education
Qualifications & Education
- A first degree that provides QTS (qualified teacher status) or TQ (teaching qualification) in Scotland
- Other relevant degree followed by further postgraduate training, such as PGCE or PGDE
- Prior experience in mainstream teaching
- Further training for special needs teaching may be mandatory
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Occupational Therapy is in demand in the UK. According to a report that surveyed over 2,600 occupational therapists, there is an increased demand for occupational therapy services. This is due to factors such as delayed intervention leading to people accessing services struggling more with activities.
To study Occupational Therapy in the UK, it is generally recommended to have A levels in science or social science subjects. However, not all universities require this specific subject background. The typical A level grades needed range from AAB to BCC. Other qualifications such as BTECs, Scottish Highers, and the International Baccalaureate are also accepted, with specific grade requirements varying.
To become an occupational therapist in the UK, you will need a degree in occupational therapy, which typically takes three years full time or up to six years part time. It is also possible to pursue a Masters degree in occupational therapy through postgraduate studies, which can be completed in one to two years.
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