Occupational Therapist

Why This Role Matters

The Occupational Therapist role at Ballarat Specialist School plays a vital role in supporting students with disabilities to access education and participate fully in school activities. By providing therapeutic assessments, intervention strategies, and collaborative support with teachers and families, the role helps students improve motor skills, independence, and engagement in the school curriculum.

Job Description

Ballarat Specialist School is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join its allied health team in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. This ongoing full-time position involves providing occupational therapy services to students with diverse learning and developmental needs, collaborating with teachers and allied health professionals, and supporting student participation through evidence-based therapy and Individual Education Plans.

Key Features of the Role

• Position: Occupational Therapist
• Organization: Ballarat Specialist School
• Location: Ballarat, Ballarat & Central Highlands VIC, Australia
• Employment Type: Full-time, Ongoing Contract
• Salary Range: $93,265 – $109,967 per year
• Start Date: 20 April 2026

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality occupational therapy services including assessment, treatment, and consultation
• Support students in developing fine motor skills, gross motor skills, self-care abilities, and sensory regulation
• Implement evidence-based therapy interventions and evaluate their effectiveness
• Maintain accurate documentation including progress notes, service reports, and assessment records
• Collaborate with teachers, allied health professionals, parents, and students to develop Individual Education Plans (IEP)
• Assist in developing strategies reflected in the Disability Inclusion Profile (DIP)
• Provide training and guidance to school staff within the scope of occupational therapy practice
• Attend staff meetings, team meetings, and professional development sessions
• Ensure compliance with privacy legislation and school policies
• Participate in ongoing professional development and performance review processes

Required Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy or equivalent qualification

Important Requirements

• Registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
• Eligibility for membership with Occupational Therapy Australia
• Knowledge of pediatric disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and developmental delay
• Ability to conduct assessments and develop evidence-based intervention programs
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team

Employment Options

• Full-time ongoing contract
• Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (negotiable)
• School-term work schedule with extended holiday benefits

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Paid school holidays (approximately 11 weeks annually)
• Opportunity to work in one of the largest specialist schools in Victoria
• Supportive allied health team and dedicated therapy hub
• Professional development budget and weekly in-service training
• Collaboration with specialist teachers and allied health professionals
• Access to extensive therapy resources

Experience and Skills

• Pediatric occupational therapy
• Assessment and therapy program planning
• Evidence-based therapy interventions
• Autism and developmental disability support
• Student-focused therapy and curriculum access support
• Communication and collaboration with educators and families

Salary Insights

• Annual Salary: $93,265 – $109,967 per year
• Additional benefits include paid school holidays and professional development opportunities

Company Overview

Ballarat Specialist School is one of the largest specialist education providers in Victoria, Australia. The school supports students with a wide range of developmental and learning needs by providing inclusive education and access to allied health services. Through collaboration between teachers, therapists, and families, the school aims to enhance student participation, independence, and academic success.

FAQs

1. What qualification is required for this role?
   Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy and be registered with AHPRA.

2. Where is the job located?
   The position is based in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia.

3. Does the role require experience in special education?
   No, prior experience in a special education setting is not mandatory.

4. What are the working hours?
   The role typically runs Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with negotiable hours.

5. Are school holidays paid?
   Yes, employees receive approximately 11 weeks of paid school holidays each year.

Application Tips

• Clearly address the Key Selection Criteria in your application
• Highlight your occupational therapy qualifications and AHPRA registration
• Mention experience working with children, autism, or developmental delays
• Demonstrate strong teamwork and collaboration skills with educators and therapists
• Include examples of evidence-based therapy and assessment experience