Scholarships for therapy graduates to work in schools

The Bligh Government is offering more than $157,000 in scholarships to allied health graduates to take up a career in a state school and work with students with special needs.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said that under the scholarship program, up to 21 graduate physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists would receive $7500 each and be guaranteed employment for a year.

“These scholarships will provide vital resources for special needs schooling – more skilled staff throughout our state,” Mr Welford said.

“Our Government wants to deliver the best possible education to students who have a disability.

“Scholarships are available to final year students who will graduate at the end of this year.

“Successful applicants will begin work from the start of school next year.

“Applications are welcome in all of the discipline areas, particularly in the field of physiotherapy.”

Mr Welford said senior therapists would supervise and give professional support to the successful applicants, following their induction to the department.

“Professional support and supervision is part of a range of existing incentives and employment conditions aimed at attracting and retaining graduate therapists, particularly in rural and remote schools,” he said.

“Other benefits include face-to-face advisory support and grants for out-of-town career development training and the possibility of departmental or government housing.

“These scholarships will help the department continue to attract allied health graduates to deliver services to students with special needs living in all regions, including rural and remote areas.”

For more information, phone Kim Ogilvie on (07) 4046 5224 or email kim.ogilvie@deta.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000