Staff profile

Sian Burgess


Programme Lead for the BSc (hons) in Occupational Therapy/ Senior Lecturer

Subject

Occupational Therapy

College

College of Health, Psychology and Social Care

Department

School of Allied Health and Social Care

Campus

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus

Email

s.d.burgess@derby.ac.uk

About

I am the programme lead for the BSc (Hons) in Occupational therapy here at the University of Derby. Prior to that, I was programme lead for the MSc Advanced Occupational Therapy programme. I am a member of the occupational therapy subject team which delivers both pre-registration occupational therapy programmes and masters levels programmes.  

Teaching responsibilities

I currently teach on both pre-registration programmes, BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy and the pre-reg MSc Occupational Therapy 

Professional interests

Prior to starting work at the university, I was Head of Children's Occupational and Physiotherapy services in North Derbyshire. As part of my clinical experience, I developed an interest in neuro and developmental disorders and specialist seating and postural management. 

I have an interest in the area of safeguarding and was a foster carer for the Derbyshire county council for 13 years. I also worked in private practice within the specialist area of medico-legal practice. 

Research interests

My master's research was in the area of students' perception of continuing professional development. CPD is still an area of interest for me both with qualified, non-qualified and students. 

Membership of professional bodies

I am a member of the following professional and regulatory bodies:

Qualifications

I hold the following qualifications:

Recent conferences

I regularly attend the European Network of Occupational Therapists in Higher Education conference and annual general meeting. 

Experience in industry

Prior to working in education, I worked in a number of NHS children's services mainly based in the local communities. I also have experience with adult and children's learning disabilities.   

Black and white image of a man with glasses wearing a facemask

The impact of Covid-19 is leaving people with symptoms that can endure for weeks or even months. The role of occupational therapists to help understand the impact this can have on their lives will be crucial.

Two people sat at a table talking

Sian Burgess, Programme Leader for the BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy at the University of Derby, discusses the role of an Occupational Therapist and the power of meaningful occupations.

Group of people standing on a stairway wearing pajamas.

Sian Burgess, Lecturer in Occupational Therapy at the University of Derby, discusses how PJ paralysis in long term patients can be tackled.