Occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in helping children with special educational needs (SEN) thrive.
In a SEN school setting, their work goes far beyond exercises — it’s about helping pupils become more independent, confident, and ready to engage with learning.
At Heart Teaching, we work with many SEN schools and professionals who understand the huge impact OTs make every day.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do in a SEN School?
Occupational therapists support students who face challenges with everyday activities due to:
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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Physical or sensory impairments
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Developmental coordination disorder (DCD/dyspraxia)
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Social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs
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Sensory processing difficulties
Their goal is to help pupils develop the physical, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to succeed in school and life.
Key Areas of Support
✅ Fine and Gross Motor Skills
Helping students improve their ability to write, use scissors, or move confidently during PE.
✅ Sensory Integration
Supporting pupils who are under- or over-sensitive to sounds, textures, lights, or movement.
✅ Emotional Regulation
Working with staff to help children develop self-soothing strategies, focus better, and reduce anxiety.
✅ Daily Living Skills
Teaching basic life skills such as dressing, eating, or using the toilet — especially in more complex or specialist SEN settings.
What’s a Typical Day Like?
A day in the life of an OT in a SEN school might include:
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Conducting assessments with new pupils
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Creating or updating individual programmes
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Working 1:1 or in small groups with students
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Collaborating with teachers, SENCOs, and support staff
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Liaising with families and external professionals
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Delivering training or advice to staff on how to support pupils’ sensory or motor needs
What Skills Do You Need?
To succeed as an OT in a SEN school, you’ll need:
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Strong communication skills – to work with staff, students, and families
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Creativity and flexibility – to adapt activities to meet diverse needs
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Empathy and patience – to support children who may be non-verbal, anxious, or easily overwhelmed
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Good knowledge of SEN frameworks – including EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans)
Final Thoughts
Occupational therapists bring a unique and essential skill set to SEN schools. Their work helps children gain confidence, independence, and access learning more fully.
At Heart Teaching, we support not just teachers and TAs, but the entire team behind a pupil’s success — including brilliant OTs.
