What personal qualities are we looking for in a Therapy Assistant?

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about supporting the social equity and inclusion of neurodivergent people. We value empathy, insight into human behavior, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a genuine desire to create a neuro affirming environment. Experience supporting people with disability, an interest in learning about neuro-affirming practices, and a positive and inclusive attitude is highly valued. Your ability to engage and support our participants through participant-centric activities within a therapeutic framework is crucial. 

What is the role of a Therapy Assistant in the Social Skills Program?

As a Therapy Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting our team of therapists to deliver high-quality therapeutic programs to assist participants to build capacity in Self Management, Emotional Regulation, Cognitive Flexibility, Communication and Social Interaction. 

Essential skills:

• Working closely with young people, assisting in group activities, providing individual support, and fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere
• To quickly develop positive relationships with neurodivergent children, teens and young adults
• Be able to follow direction from your line manager to implement therapeutic goals and engage in reflective practice
• Write case notes
• With support you will also facilitate explicit scaffolded social learning tasks

Additional Mandatory skills:

Confident and experienced in facilitating cooperative tabletop role-playing games

Desirable skills:

You may also be asked to facilitate other participant-centered activities such as board games, art, and miniature figure painting.  

How many hours can I expect to work?

Initially, the position of Therapy Assistants is in a relief role capacity. This means you will work on an as-needed basis to cover staff absences. Shifts are a minimum of 3 hours. Relief shifts can be scheduled in advance with prior notice or may be short-notice to cover unexpected absences of regular staff. There is potential for the number of hours to increase and advancement to permanent part-time contracts is possible based on demonstrated proficiency and performance review.

Will I receive training & support?

Absolutely! We are committed to ensuring all our staff feel confident and prepared. Our comprehensive training program includes:

• Orientation with the Program Psychologist and the Program Manager: To provide an overview of our philosophy, approach, and expectations.
• Shadow Shifts with Experienced Therapy Assistants: To gain practical, hands-on experience in our programs.

Will I receive training & support? (cont.)

• Coaching by Experienced Social Skills Instructors: To develop your skills in facilitating social skills development.
• Quarterly Staff Professional Learning Meetings: To foster ongoing learning and development within the team.
• Professional Development Meetings with the Program Psychologist: To discuss your professional growth and address any specific learning needs.
• Reflective Conversations and Coaching with the Program Manager: To provide ongoing support and feedback to enhance your practice.

What is the pay rate for a Therapy Assistant?

Entry-level Therapy Assistants are casual contracts as Level 1 Support Services Employees. The pay rate is $34.82 per hour for weekday hours. Weekend hours attract a higher remuneration rate in accordance with the Health Professionals and Support Services Award. 

What should I do before applying?

We strongly encourage all individuals interested in working at Knights of the Shed to thoroughly research our website. This will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of our service, our values, and the nature of the work required. Please note that we are a therapeutic service and not a recreational or community gaming service or club.  You will need to emphasise your ability to connect and for positive connections with neurodivergent people.