Welcome to our Heart Teaching blog about the different therapist roles within SEN schools! In this post, we’ll explore the various roles and responsibilities of therapists who work with children with special educational needs.
SEN (Special Educational Needs) schools provide education for children with a wide range of disabilities and special needs. These children often require support from a team of professionals, including therapists, to help them reach their full potential.
There are several types of therapists who work in SEN schools. Let’s take a look at each of these roles in more detail:
Occupational Therapist (OT)
Occupational therapists work with children to help them develop their physical, sensory, and cognitive skills. They help children to become more independent in their daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and playing. OTs may also provide sensory integration therapy and support children with fine motor skills, handwriting, and other related areas.
Speech and Language Therapist (SLT)
Speech and language therapists work with children who have communication difficulties. They help children to develop their language skills, including speech, understanding, and expression. SLTs may also support children who have difficulties with swallowing or eating.
Physiotherapist (PT)
Physiotherapists work with children to improve their physical abilities and movement. They may provide exercises, stretches, and other treatments to help children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy. PTs also work with children who have injuries or who are recovering from surgery.
Play Therapist
Play therapists use play as a way to help children express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. They create a safe and supportive environment for children to explore and process their emotions. Play therapy can be particularly helpful for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or other difficult experiences.
Music Therapist
Music therapists use music to help children improve their emotional, social, and communication skills. They may use singing, playing instruments, or listening to music to help children express themselves and build relationships with others.
Art Therapist
Art therapists use art as a way to help children explore their feelings and experiences. They may use painting, drawing, sculpture, or other forms of art to help children express themselves and process difficult emotions.
In addition to these specific roles, there are also professionals who work as part of a multidisciplinary team, such as educational psychologists, counsellors, and social workers. Together, this team of professionals provides a holistic approach to supporting children with special educational needs.
In conclusion, therapists play a vital role in helping children with special educational needs to reach their full potential. Their expertise and support can make a significant difference in the lives of these children and their families. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, please call 01732 494 808 to find out more.
