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Occupational therapists help people of all ages to overcome barriers caused by illness, injury, disability or ageing, so that they can carry out everyday activities that are important to them. This could include helping someone regain skills after a stroke, assisting children with developmental needs, or supporting people with mental health challenges to live independently. Occupational therapists assess clients' needs, create custom intervention plans, and work closely with families and other professionals. Most occupational therapists are employed within the NHS, but there are also roles in social care, schools, charities, and private practice. The role can be varied and rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives.
Occupational therapists in the UK typically earn between £28,000 and £43,000 per year, depending on experience and banding within the NHS.
As of 2023, there are over 45,000 registered occupational therapists in the United Kingdom.
Demand for occupational therapists is expected to rise by around 4 percent between 2022 and 2027, due to an ageing population and greater awareness of mental health.
Supports children and young people in developing the skills needed for daily life, such as dressing, handwriting, and social interaction, often working in schools or hospitals.
Works with individuals experiencing mental health difficulties, helping them to build routines and strategies for independent living and recovery.
Specialises in helping elderly people maintain their independence and wellbeing, often focusing on rehabilitation after illness or injury.
Select GCSE subjects that support a future in occupational therapy, focusing on sciences, maths, and English.
Science subjects such as Biology or Chemistry are particularly helpful as they provide a foundation for understanding the human body and health. Maths and English are also essential for communication and problem-solving skills, both crucial in occupational therapy. Aim for good grades to keep your options open for A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
Take A-levels (or Scottish Highers/BTECs) in subjects such as Biology, Psychology, or Health and Social Care.
Most occupational therapy degree courses require at least one science-based A-level, often Biology. Psychology and Health and Social Care are also useful, as they provide insight into human behaviour and health needs. Check specific university requirements so you can choose your subjects accordingly.
Arrange work experience or volunteering in a healthcare setting to observe occupational therapists at work.
This experience will help you understand the day-to-day role of an occupational therapist and strengthen your university application. Try contacting local hospitals, care homes, or community health services to ask about shadowing opportunities or volunteering roles. Experience working with children, elderly people, or those with disabilities is especially valuable.
Learn about the different specialisms and settings within occupational therapy, such as paediatrics, mental health, or elderly care.
Understanding the variety of roles within occupational therapy can help you decide which areas interest you most and tailor your future studies or placements. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists and NHS Careers websites provide excellent resources for this research.
Apply for and complete a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)-approved BSc (Hons) degree in occupational therapy.
Most courses last three years full-time, combining academic study with practical placements in a variety of settings. Entry is competitive, so strong academic results and relevant experience are important. There are also postgraduate routes if you already have a degree in a related subject.
Register with the Health and Care Professions Council to practise as an occupational therapist in the UK.
Graduates must register with the HCPC before they can work as an occupational therapist. This professional body ensures you meet the standards for training, professional skills, behaviour, and health required to practise safely and effectively.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Occupational Therapist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An occupational therapist and an art therapist both work to improve individuals' mental health and well-being through creative and therapeutic activities. Both professions involve assessing clients' needs and using specialised techniques to promote recovery and development.
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
You'll need to complete a postgraduate qualification approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.
Full time postgraduate courses normally take 2 years to complete. Part time courses take 3 years.
You should have a degree in art or creative therapies to do a postgraduate course.
You may be able to apply if you've got a degree in a related subject, for example psychology, nursing or social work.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to do an arts therapist degree apprenticeship.
You'll usually need a qualification or experience in art, drama or music to apply.
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
To get a job as an art therapist, you'll need paid or volunteering experience with:
You can find volunteering opportunities through:
You could try an introduction or foundation course in art therapy to give you an idea of what the work is like.
You can join the British Association of Art Therapists for access to professional development and networking opportunities.
You'll find more details about this career, courses and training through the British Association of Art Therapists and Health Careers.
You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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