Broadmeadows SDS has a large therapy team consisting of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists.

More than 25 therapists work alongside teachers, education support staff and parents to support students to access their educational programs.  DIR/Floortime Model (Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-based) is a key framework underlying therapy support provided at BSDS.  Therapists see each class several times a week so your child will have regular contact with Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists (and Physiotherapists if required). 

Therapists work with teachers to develop individual therapy programs for each student in the school and write goals and reports together. The therapy team use a variety of techniques in their work with students, with a commitment to accessing and implementing current research-based interventions and practices.  There is a strong focus on engaging students in meaningful and enjoyable interactions with staff and peers to support their learning across all curriculum areas. 

Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapists (OT) support students to participate in the activities of everyday life at school and in the community.

They help students develop independence so they can engage with their world and in activities that are meaningful to them. Occupational Therapists at BSDS work in a wide range of areas including:

• Fine motor skills and developing handwriting skills
• Play skills (utilising the ‘Learn to Play’ program)
• Self-care skills such as mealtimes, grooming and toileting
• Underlying motor skills to support all learning
• Sensory processing and integration
• Adapting the environment to support optimal learning
• Community access and work experience

OTs can also help provide equipment (such as adapted cutlery, chew tubes, specialised seating) to have the most success in their everyday tasks.

Speech Therapy

Speech Pathologists (SP) specifically assess, plan, implement and evaluate speech, language, literacy and communication skills.

Students are supported to become strong communicators using a variety of ways to get their message across, such as using gestures, symbols, Key Word Sign and words.  Social communication and the ability to interact with those around them are key focus areas.

Speech Pathology programs at BSDS focus on the development of:

•  Language (words and sentences)
•  Speech (sounds in words)
•  Augmentative and Alternative Communication- AAC
(using signs/symbols to communicate as verbal language develops)
•  Play, social skills and interaction
(utilising ‘Learn to Play’ program and DIR framework)
•  Mealtime and feeding support

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists support students to develop and maintain their movement
and mobility. 

They work with students to help them be as involved as possible in their daily activities.  Individual programs are designed and implemented to support students’ physical development and include activities such as climbing, jumping, throwing, riding bikes. 

Physiotherapists can also arrange funding through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) to provide equipment to support students to develop their mobility skills, such as sourcing wheelchairs, walkers and orthotics.