Job summary The Therapy Service is excited to advertise an Occupational Therapy (OT) degree apprenticeship post as a fantastic development opportunity for an enthusiastic individual. Occupational Therapists range of skills and expertise make them an asset to any setting, providing the tools for people to live a fulfilling life with a focus on independence and reaching potential. Apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to 'earn while you learn' as you progress throughout the four-year course while working at least 30 hours a week. A higher/degree apprenticeship in BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Level 6) will enable you to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) which is required to practice as a registered Occupational Therapist. We are looking for an individual who is motivated, enthusiastic and flexible in all areas of care and their approach to work. An OT apprentice will be able to apply their skills and knowledge to the workplace as they progress through their training. The ability to balance work-based learning and off the job time will be essential. You will also need to be compassionate, have excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and be able to work as part of a team. The successful applicant will join our experienced integrated therapy team, working alongside occupational therapists, physiotherapists, therapy support workers and the wider multidisciplinary team. Main duties of the job The post holder will have no budget or managerial responsibilities. They will be expected to progress to supervise and appraise less experienced therapists, support workers and undergraduates, with the support of the team leader. There will also be progression to taking on increasing responsibility for the day-to-day management of the clinical area, in the absence of more senior staff. The post holder is supervised by a named therapist (mentor), although they may not be present at all times. Clinical and professional supervision is in the form of regular clinical reasoning sessions, observed practice, peer review and formal training. This will also include mapping progress against core skills, knowledge and behaviours as outlined in the course standards as well as taking on CPD opportunities closely linked to Trust appraisal. Access to advice and support from specialist therapists is available as required. Access to advice and support from specialist therapists is available as required. Pay will be at your existing pay point if currently employed as NHS staff. If not currently employed as NHS staff, pay will be in accordance with Annex 21 About us It is expected that all employees uphold the values of the organisation as our values underpin everything we do and describe the way we expect our staff to behave towards our patients, families and carers and between each other. We have the following three values: 1. Caring Patients said: "Show me that you care about me as an individual. Talk to me, not about me. Look at me when you talk to me." 2. Listening Patients said: "Please acknowledge me, even if you can't help me right now. Show me that you know that I'm here." 3. Excelling Patients said: "Don't just do what you have to, take the next step and go the extra mile." Date posted 06 March 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 5 Salary £21,890 to £27,362 a year pro rata Contract Fixed term Duration 4 years Working pattern Full-time Reference number 318-25-T0185 Job locations Both Gloucester and Cheltenham Hospitals Great Western Road Gloucester GL1 3NN Job description Job responsibilities In line with the Trust Vision to provide the Best Care for Everyone Professional values To deliver therapeutic interventions, using the principles of Occupational Therapy in an integrated and client-centred way supported by the Therapy Competency Framework with guidance and supervision of your mentor. To work within the Therapy team providing an effective and evidence-based service through assessing, planning and implementing treatment programmes. Communication and interpersonal skills To communicate effectively with patients and carers potentially complex, sensitive or distressing information; in order to provide patient centred care, to encourage self-management, maximise rehabilitation potential and to ensure understanding of the condition with guidance and supervision of your mentor. Patients may have communication, perceptual or cognitive/understanding difficulties. To communicate effectively and work collaboratively with medical, nursing, other allied health professions and other colleagues to ensure delivery of a coordinated multidisciplinary service. To demonstrate awareness of and communication with the Trust Apprenticeships and Careers Team as appropriate and required. Leadership, management and team working To take on increasing responsibility for personal development and supporting the development and supervision of others by CPD (continuing professional development), linked to appraisal. Job description Job responsibilities In line with the Trust Vision to provide the Best Care for Everyone Professional values To deliver therapeutic interventions, using the principles of Occupational Therapy in an integrated and client-centred way supported by the Therapy Competency Framework with guidance and supervision of your mentor. To work within the Therapy team providing an effective and evidence-based service through assessing, planning and implementing treatment programmes. Communication and interpersonal skills To communicate effectively with patients and carers potentially complex, sensitive or distressing information; in order to provide patient centred care, to encourage self-management, maximise rehabilitation potential and to ensure understanding of the condition with guidance and supervision of your mentor. Patients may have communication, perceptual or cognitive/understanding difficulties. To communicate effectively and work collaboratively with medical, nursing, other allied health professions and other colleagues to ensure delivery of a coordinated multidisciplinary service. To demonstrate awareness of and communication with the Trust Apprenticeships and Careers Team as appropriate and required. Leadership, management and team working To take on increasing responsibility for personal development and supporting the development and supervision of others by CPD (continuing professional development), linked to appraisal. Person Specification Experience Essential Demonstrate commitment to successful completion of Apprenticeship level 6 program and final clinical competency assessment - attending all academic sessions and self-study outside of working hours Reliable, Punctual, Conscientious with an attention to detail and a positive attitude to learning Experience of working in the NHS in the UK Qualifications Essential Must be employed in a role that is relevant to the skill, trade or occupation you're being trained for. Knowledge Essential Awareness of the Occupational Therapy role / evidence of career research Apply a practical approach to problem solving. Be able to manage own workload under supervision and through direction to ensure this meets the required standards but seek help when required. Demonstrate effective communication skills, both verbal, non-verbal and written when interacting with other team members, clients and other professionals. Demonstrate clear, concise and accurate communication when conveying written information Desirable Valid UK Driving License Person Specification Experience Essential Demonstrate commitment to successful completion of Apprenticeship level 6 program and final clinical competency assessment - attending all academic sessions and self-study outside of working hours Reliable, Punctual, Conscientious with an attention to detail and a positive attitude to learning Experience of working in the NHS in the UK Qualifications Essential Must be employed in a role that is relevant to the skill, trade or occupation you're being trained for. Knowledge Essential Awareness of the Occupational Therapy role / evidence of career research Apply a practical approach to problem solving. Be able to manage own workload under supervision and through direction to ensure this meets the required standards but seek help when required. Demonstrate effective communication skills, both verbal, non-verbal and written when interacting with other team members, clients and other professionals. Demonstrate clear, concise and accurate communication when conveying written information Desirable Valid UK Driving License Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. Employer details Employer name Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Address Both Gloucester and Cheltenham Hospitals Great Western Road Gloucester GL1 3NN Employer's website https://www.gloshospitals.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)