“Occupational therapists use scientifically chosen meaningful activities to assist diverse clients with a range of problems to maximize their functioning. This empowers them to be as independent as possible and to experience dignity and quality of life.” (Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa)

School-based occupational therapists are key contributors to the education team. They help children to fulfil their role as scholars and to lay a foundation for their future roles as employees or entrepreneurs.

At Suiderberg School, the occupational therapists work with learners in the Preparation Programme to address underlying aspects such as visual perception and fine motor skills to support academic outcomes and to help prepare them for the practical subjects. Meaningful activities are chosen to address specific objectives. Activities include two-dimensional worksheets and diagrams, as well as three-dimensional activities and visual-motor integration tasks to improve construction- and visualisation skills.

The school is also in the process of establishing a new therapeutic computer lab where activities will be presented through interactive educational computer programmes.

The occupational therapists also work with learners in Year 3 and Year 4 in the Exit Programme, to address social skills, self-help skills and prevocational skills to help prepare them for the transition from school to the world of work or further training.
Attention is given to self-knowledge, self-presentation skills as well as job-seeking and job-keeping skills.

The occupational therapists strive to support learners of Suiderberg School to reach their optimal potential.