Occupational Therapist

We’re looking for an Occupational Therapist who can live and volunteer in‑country for 7 months in the Philippines.

• This assignment seeks to strengthen inclusive and functional occupational therapy practices within a special education organisation. The role focuses on improving evidence‑based assessment, intervention planning, classroom integration, and systems for monitoring functional and sensory‑motor outcomes, while building the capacity of teachers and therapists to deliver sustainable support.
• To be considered for this role, you’ll need a degree in Occupational Therapy and practical experience working with children or young people with developmental disabilities, particularly in areas such as sensory processing, motor development, and activities of daily living.
• As a volunteer, you will support capacity building and mentoring, the development of therapy frameworks and documentation systems, and the integration of inclusive, functional, and sensory strategies into classrooms and daily routines. The role emphasises sustainability and collaboration rather than direct service delivery alone.

About the Partner Organisation

The Center for Excellence in Special Education (Stepping Stone) Foundation, Inc. is a non‑profit organisation located in Sucat, Parañaque City, Philippines.

Stepping Stone provides inclusive education and therapy services for children, adolescents, and young adults with autism, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and communication challenges, working closely with families, teachers, and community partners.

The organisation requires a volunteer due to limited access to specialised paediatric occupational therapy expertise within community‑based, non‑profit settings, particularly in systems development, evidence‑based assessment, and staff mentoring. The volunteer will help strengthen internal capacity and ensure long‑term, sustainable impact.

About the Australian Volunteers Program  

The Australian Volunteers Program is an Australian government-funded initiative. We support partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to achieve locally led change.  

Volunteers are supported throughout their volunteer journey. We actively support and encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to volunteer and aim to make the program as accessible and inclusive as possible. If you have accessibility requirements, please contact us to discuss how we can support you to volunteer with us - inclusion@australianvolunteers.com. Learn more about our commitment to inclusion.