Allied Match guide
What does a school-based occupational therapist do?
School-based OT focuses on the tasks, routines and environments that affect a student’s access and participation at school.
Published 21 September 2026 · 7 minute read
Quick answer
Quick answer
A school-based occupational therapist may observe a student in class, assess functional barriers, work with teachers and family, recommend adjustments, and support skills needed for school participation. The goal is access to learning and school life—not simply practising handwriting in a different room.
The school task comes first
An OT may be asked to help when handwriting, seating, transitions, self-care, sensory demands, playground access, equipment or classroom routines are limiting participation. The therapist looks at the student, the task and the environment together.
That can lead to direct work with the student, but it can also lead to changes in materials, timing, instructions, classroom setup or adult support. A useful recommendation should be realistic in the actual school day.
What a visit may include
With appropriate consent, the OT may speak with the student, family and teacher; observe a particular lesson or routine; review existing reports; trial an adjustment; and agree on next steps. Formal assessment is not required for every question.
- Clarifying the specific school activity that is difficult
- Observing the student in the relevant setting
- Identifying strengths, barriers and current adjustments
- Suggesting strategies, equipment or environmental changes
- Explaining the plan to the adults who will use it
- Reviewing whether the change improves participation
Private therapy and school responsibility are different
A family may engage a private OT, and a school may also arrange allied-health input through its own processes. In NSW public schools, outside providers must follow school requirements, and the school remains responsible for reasonable adjustments and educational decisions.
Ask who authorised the visit, what information will be shared, where notes will be stored and whether teacher liaison or travel is charged. The therapist cannot promise that a school will adopt every recommendation.
Questions to ask before a school visit
A school visit is most useful when everyone knows the question it is meant to answer. ‘Observe at school’ is too broad on its own.
- Which activity or part of the day will be observed?
- Has the school agreed to the visit and its purpose?
- Will the student know the therapist is observing them?
- What feedback will the family and teacher receive?
- What are the travel, observation, report and liaison fees?
Common questions
Does a school-based OT only help with handwriting?
No. Handwriting can be one concern, but OTs may also address self-care, equipment, sensory and motor demands, transitions, routines and access to school activities.
Can my private OT visit a NSW public school?
Potentially, with the school’s agreement and subject to its provider, safety, consent and operational requirements. Contact the school before arranging the visit.
Will the school follow every OT recommendation?
Not automatically. The school considers professional advice alongside student needs, educational responsibilities, safety and available ways to make reasonable adjustments.
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