Lecturer in Occupational Therapy

Since qualifying as an Occupational Therapist, I have predominantly worked with children and young people, specialising in neurodevelopmental conditions and Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) needs. I am extremely passionate about enhancing the lives of children & young people through meaningful Occupational Therapy and Sensory Integration.

I started working part time at the University of Bedfordshire on the BSc Occupational Therapy course in 2024. Within this role I am most looking forward to embedding simulated and creative teaching methods into teaching and learning activities while working as a Lecturer. Supporting students on their journeys to transitioning between Student Occupational Therapists and newly qualified Occupational Therapists is an area I am extremely passionate about.

Currently I am studying MSc Sensory Integration where I am currently completing my dissertation, using creative research methods. Alongside my role at the University of Bedfordshire I work clinically as an Occupational within private practice and within an Autism Specialist School. I look forward to teaching both theoretical and practical aspects of Occupational Therapy to students.

Qualifications

• MSc Sensory Integration- Sheffield Hallam University (to be completed in 2025).
• PGCert in Higher Education (to commence in 2025).
• BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy- University of Northampton.

Research Interests

• Understanding the lived experience of how sensory differences impact upon autistic children & young people.
• The role of sensory based interventions in response to behaviours of concern and their role in reducing restrictive practice.
• The effectiveness of simulated learning opportunities to enhance competencies of Occupational Therapy students and newly qualified Occupational Therapists.
• Developing role emerging placement opportunities for Occupational Therapists within settings and services for children, young people and families.

External Roles

• Occupational Therapist & Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner (specialising in neurodiverse children & young people).

Contact Details

E: abbie.sinfield@beds.ac.uk