Occupational Therapist

Typical Salary

£24,907 To £62,001

Typical Hours

35 to 40 a week

9am to 5pm

How To Become a Occupational Therapist

You can get into this job through:

a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role

College / University

You can do a degree in occupational therapy, approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

biological science
health science
psychology

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Apprenticeship

You can do an occupational therapist degree apprenticeship.

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

You could start as an occupational therapy support worker. With backing from your employer, you could study for a degree part time to qualify as an occupational therapist.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of psychology
counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
sensitivity and understanding
to be flexible and open to change
knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to work well with others
the ability to use your initiative
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Day To Day Tasks

In this role, you could:

teach a patient recovering from a stroke how to do things for themselves
encourage someone with depression to take up a hobby or activity
suggest ways to adapt an office so that an employee injured in a car accident can return to work
support patients to manage permanent physical disabilities
help people with learning disabilities to live independently
keep notes about clients' progress
advise and support clients and their families and carers.

Working Environment

You could work at a client's home, in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's business, at a GP practice or at an adult care home.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career Path & Progression

You could progress to senior clinician or head of occupational therapy services in the NHS. You may also be able to move into general health or social services management.

You could also go into private practice, education or research.

Volunteering Opportunities

You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary experience in care or healthcare work before you apply for training.

Tips & Information

Registration

you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council

Further information

You can find out more about careers and training in occupational therapy from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and Health Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

You'll need to:

pass enhanced background checks, as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults