Occupational Therapy Assistant (Apprenticeship Opportunity)

Job Description

Job Summary

We are excited to offer a rare development opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our Occupational Therapy team as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, with the potential to progress onto the Occupational Therapy Degree Apprenticeship in September 2026.

This role offers a clear path to becoming a qualified Occupational Therapist, starting with a 12-month support worker role. On successful completion of probation, acceptance onto the University of the West of England (UWE) apprenticeship programme, and with endorsement from your supervisor, the role will be extended for the full 4-year duration of the apprenticeship.

You’ll be based primarily on Beechlydene Ward, a mixed-gender, adult acute mental health unit.

Key Responsibilities

Support the delivery of Occupational Therapy interventions, including individual and group-based sessions.

Assist qualified OTs with assessments and treatment plans using the Occupational Therapy process.

Work closely within the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) to support service users’ recovery and independence.

Carry out delegated tasks under appropriate supervision.

Contribute to the planning and delivery of meaningful, person-centered activities and interventions.

Maintain accurate records and follow relevant Trust policies and procedures.

Development Opportunity

If successful in this role and accepted onto the apprenticeship program, you will:

Work 3 days per week while studying towards a BSc in Occupational Therapy.

Complete clinical placements and academic modules.

Be supported by a Practice Educator and on-site supervisor throughout the apprenticeship.

Be considered for a Band 5 Occupational Therapist role within AWP upon qualification (subject to availability and performance).

What We’re Looking For

Essential Qualifications

Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent) – must be achieved before apprenticeship start.

Evidence of successful recent (within 3 years) Level 3 study (A-Level or equivalent), or Foundation Degree/Assistant Practitioner apprenticeship.

Essential Experience & Knowledge

A clear understanding of the role of Occupational Therapy and a strong desire to pursue it as a career.

Awareness of how mental and physical health conditions impact people’s daily lives and how OT can help.

Experience working in a team and independently.

Essential Skills & Attributes

Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to follow protocols and take direction.

Excellent time management and organisation, especially balancing work, study, and personal life.

Adaptability, enthusiasm, and professionalism.

Desirable

Experience working or volunteering in health, social care, or mental health settings.

Group work or creative activity skills.

Full UK driving licence.

Additional Requirements

You must have the right to work in the UK and not require visa sponsorship now or in the future.

This role is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, due to its nature and patient contact.

About Us

Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) provides mental health services to over 1.8 million people across a wide geographical area including B&NES, Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Swindon, Wiltshire, and parts of Dorset.

We are proud of our diverse workforce of over 5,000 staff and are committed to providing person-centred care, valuing individual differences and supporting all employees to thrive. AWP particularly encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, those with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to start a rewarding career in Occupational Therapy while gaining hands-on experience in a supportive and experienced mental health team.