Speech Language Therapist

Are you a passionate Speech-Language Therapist who believes every ākonga has the right to be heard, understood and empowered to communicate? Rotorua Specialist School – Te Kura Pūkenga o Rotorua is seeking a compassionate and collaborative Speech-Language Therapist to join our therapy team. Our kura supports ākonga aged 5–21 with complex learning, communication, sensory and physical needs across our Base School and satellite classes throughout Rotorua. Rotorua is a vibrant and welcoming place to live and work, renowned for its beautiful lakes, geothermal landscapes and world-class forests and mountain-biking trails. With an active lifestyle, strong community spirit and a central North Island location, Rotorua offers something for everyone. You will work alongside teachers, teacher aides, therapists, whānau and outside agencies to develop practical, individualised communication approaches that can be embedded throughout each ākonga’s day. Key responsibilities include: Assessing the communication strengths and needs of ākonga. Developing and overseeing individual communication programmes. Supporting augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), including communication devices, symbols and visual supports. Modelling effective communication strategies for staff and whānau. Contributing to Individual Education Plans and multidisciplinary meetings. Maintaining clinical records and monitoring student progress. Supporting learners with feeding and swallowing (dysphagia) needs, including development of feeding plans in collaboration with CDT, whānau and staff. We welcome applications from experienced or recently qualified Speech-Language Therapists. Applicants must: Hold a recognized speech-language therapy qualification. Be a member of, or eligible for membership with, the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association. Understand, or be interested in developing expertise in, AAC and total communication. Work effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team. Demonstrate cultural responsiveness and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Hold a full New Zealand driver licence. Be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.. We offer a welcoming team, a varied caseload and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference for ākonga and whānau. Please email your cover letter, curriculum vitae and referee details to lorraine@rsspukenga.school.nz .