Education Therapist – Speech and Language (Grade 1)

Requirements         

• Degree in Speech-Language Therapy: A recognized Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology/Therapy from an accredited institution.
• HPCSA Registration: Current and valid registration as a Speech-Language Therapist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) is mandatory. One Year of Relevant Experience: A minimum of one year of experience or relevant clinical experience as a Speech-Language Therapist.
• Knowledge of Inclusive Education (IE) policies (White Paper 6); Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy; Special Schools as Resource Centres; and Integrated School Health Policy. Functionality of SBSTs and DBSTs. Inclusive Education (IE) policies (White Paper 6); Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy; Special Schools as Resource Centres; and Integrated School Health Policy. Functionality of SBSTs and DBSTs.
• Therapeutic assessment and techniques; Multi-disciplinary teamwork; Preventative and developmental approach; Development of training programmes for the SBST; Report writing; Analysis of data and trends; Communication, consultation and facilitation skills; Computer literacy; Presentation skills and organising and planning.

Duties          

• To conduct thorough assessments of learners' speech, language, and communication difficulties, including evaluation of speech sounds, language comprehension and expression, fluency, and voice in the special schools. To conduct outreach services to Full-Service and Public Ordinary Schools to extend therapeutic support.
• Administer formal and informal assessments and conduct screenings for learners to identify needs. Develop and implement individualized and group Speech-Language Therapy plans for learners in public special schools and public ordinary schools. Prescribe, issue, and maintain appropriate assistive devices to support communication.
• Provide relevant information about therapeutic programs to internal and external stakeholders, including School-Based Support Teams, District-Based Support Teams, and parents. Assist in the appropriate placement of learners within special schools based on their communication needs. Ensure strict compliance with the Code of Ethics of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) in all aspects of practice.
• Oversee effective administrative practices related to Speech and Language Therapy interventions. Analyse and interpret information to make decisions regarding the need for therapeutic intervention, engage in multi-disciplinary team discussions, and make recommendations and/or referrals.