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Occupational therapists help people of all ages overcome physical or mental health difficulties that affect their daily lives. This can include supporting people to recover from illness, injury, or manage long-term conditions. They work closely with patients to assess their needs and develop practical solutions, such as adapting their home environment, teaching new ways of completing tasks, or recommending assistive equipment. Occupational therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, community centres, and patients' homes. The role is both challenging and rewarding, as you help people regain independence and improve their quality of life. Strong communication skills, empathy, and creative problem-solving are essential traits for this career.
Occupational therapists in the UK typically earn between £28,407 and £43,742 per year within the NHS Agenda for Change pay bands.
There were over 41,000 registered occupational therapists in the UK in 2023, with demand projected to rise due to an ageing population.
To practise as an occupational therapist in the UK, you must complete an approved degree and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Works specifically with children to help them develop skills needed for daily living and learning, often in schools or healthcare settings.
Supports individuals with mental health conditions to improve their independence and wellbeing through tailored activities and therapies.
Focuses on helping people recover from hand and upper limb injuries or conditions, using specialised techniques to restore movement and function.
Learn about what occupational therapists do, the areas they work in, and the types of people they help.
Look for information on NHS careers websites or professional bodies such as the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. You can also watch videos, read articles, or attend career fairs to get an idea of the daily work, specialisms, and required skills in occupational therapy.
Speak with practising occupational therapists or attend open days at universities or hospitals.
Try arranging an informational interview with an occupational therapist through your school, college, or local NHS trust. Many universities also offer open days or taster sessions for prospective students interested in healthcare careers.
Achieve at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, maths, and science. Take relevant A Levels such as biology, psychology, or health and social care.
Strong grades in science subjects are helpful. Some colleges also offer BTEC Level 3 qualifications in health and social care, which can be accepted by universities as an alternative to A Levels.
Apply for and complete an approved BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy degree course.
Look for courses accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council HCPC and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. Most degrees take three years full-time. Entry requirements vary, but generally require A Levels or equivalent qualifications and some relevant experience.
Gain practical experience by completing placements as part of your degree and consider volunteering in healthcare or community settings.
Placements are a core part of occupational therapy degrees and provide hands-on experience in hospitals, schools, or community centres. Volunteering with people with disabilities, older adults, or mental health services can also strengthen your application and skills.
Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council to practise as an occupational therapist in the UK.
You must be registered with the HCPC to use the title 'Occupational Therapist' and work legally in the UK. The registration process involves proving your qualifications and may require evidence of good character and health.
Search and apply for entry-level occupational therapist positions in the NHS, private sector, schools, or community organisations.
Use NHS Jobs, recruitment agencies, or specialist job boards to find roles. Prepare a CV highlighting your placements, volunteering, and degree, and practise for interviews by considering scenarios and values relevant to occupational therapy.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Occupational Therapist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Both occupational therapists and art therapists use creative processes to help individuals improve their mental and physical well-being. They often work with clients to develop skills and coping strategies through therapeutic activities, making their roles closely aligned in terms of therapeutic approaches and qualifications.
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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