You could do a degree in occupational therapy, approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

Courses combine work placements with academic study.

Postgraduate conversion course

You might be able to do a postgraduate conversion course if you've got a degree in a subject like:

• biological science
• health science
• psychology

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You could do an Occupational Therapist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

This usually takes 4 years to complete and is a mix of learning on the job and academic study at an approved university.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

You could start as an occupational therapy support worker. 

With support from your employer, you could study for a degree part time to qualify as an occupational therapist.

You'll find it helpful to get some work experience in healthcare before you apply for jobs or training.

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be flexible and open to change
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

As an occupational therapist you could:

• teach and help clients to live independently
• help clients with mental illnesses do activities they enjoy
• support clients to manage permanent physical disabilities
• suggest ways to adapt an office or home
• support clients, their families and carers and keep notes about progress

You could work at a client's home, in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's business, at a GP practice or at an adult care home.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear a uniform.