Jess Wilson

Occupational Therapist- Special Schools and Neurodevelopment

Occupational Therapist- Special Schools and Neurodevelopment
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy

Hello, my name is Jess, and I work as an Occupational Therapist at Words First. I completed my Bachelor ofScience in Occupational Therapy at the University of Cape Town, graduating in 2019. Following my graduation, I gained valuable experience working at a hospital in South Africa for a year before relocating to the United Kingdom in 2021.

I work as an Occupational Therapist in a special needs school in London to support children with diverse needs. I work alongside several other healthcare professionals to provide holistic and child-centred care to the students. Working in this environment has helped to develop my passion and interest in the areas ofSensory Integration, as well as different neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism SpectrumConditions. The experience I have gained working in such a setting has shaped my view that every child is unique and has individual needs, interests, and potential, which I believe are all important factors to acknowledge when assessing and working with any children.

I also work as part of a multidisciplinary team at our Words First Autism Diagnostic Clinics, alongside aSpeech and Language Therapist and a Paediatrician. These clinics run monthly at Kids First, a private clinic located in Kenley. I completed my ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) training in July 2023, further enhancing my assessment skills and ability to contribute to a thorough understanding of individuals’ strengths and challenges. My overarching aim in all aspects of my work is to foster independence, well-being, and active participation in meaningful daily activities.