Join as a learner and be supported from the start

You’re on your way to becoming an occupational therapist! We’re here to support you from the start. We’ll lift you up to be the best you can be while you study and throughout your career.

We understand that being a student or apprentice isn’t easy! You’ve got a lot to learn. You’re taking in new ideas and building your network as well as managing your finances, finding placements and planning your future.

I’m joining.

Here are a few of the ways we’ll support you throughout your studies and career.

Expand your knowledge: resources to help you complete your assignments

As a member you’ll be able to access our ever-growing collection of digital resources to support your learning 24/7. Expand your knowledge and keep up to date on news, policy, professional developments, features and opinions through our magazine, newsletters and our website.

Farhat wishes she’d made more use of her membership earlier.

Build your networks: connect with others with diverse experience

Our inclusive communities will give you a place to share, learn and network based on your region and areas of interest. You’ll be able to connect with others to explore different areas of practice and access learning opportunities. And build relationships that will support you to get started in your career.

Explore how we’re reimagining our communities.

Capture your learning: evidence your learning in one place throughout your career

You’ll have your very own CPD portfolio where you can easily record and evidence your lifelong learning. Using this platform means you’ll have a record of all your CPD in one place throughout your career.

• Pick up and put down your recording easily.
• Choose the reflection templates which suit you best.
• See your progress on each entry progress.
• Feel prepared for future HCPC CPD audits.

Find out why you should use our CPD portfolio.

Voice of the profession: help us drive change for the profession

As a member you’ll be able to help shape future strategies, such as our Workforce Strategy that outlines where we can help reform health and social care services using the life-changing power of occupational therapy. We’ll help you lead change, collaborate with other changemakers and access OT-focused change projects.

Mary is a member for the unity, collaboration and the power of being one voice

We’ve got your back: essential insurance cover for when you’re on placement

When you join, you’ll get professional indemnity cover that’s essential to protect you when you’re on placements in the UK and overseas. You’ll also be able to call our dedicated professional advisory service who’ll support and guide you.

Orla joined for the insurance and stayed for all the other benefits

Start to practise: help you move from pre-registration to practice

We’ll support you through the big move from pre-registration to practice. We’ll guide you on how to use our Career Development Framework to map out your career pathway. When you have questions or concerns our Professional Advisory Service is just a phone call away.

Being part of RCOT means you’ll support us to ensure the quality of education and improve placement quality and capacity now and in future.