Occupational therapists’ perceptions of a school-to-work transition programme for learners at a special educational needs school

Abstract

Introduction: South Africa has a high unemployment rate and few post-school employment opportunities for learners with disabilities. School-to-work transition programmes in special educational needs schools prepare learners with disabilities for work in the open labour market, optimizing post-school employment opportunities. Occupational therapists are the main key role players in facilitating school-to-work transition programme in many contexts of education.

Aim: This study explores the perceptions of occupational therapists of a school-to-work transition programme at the school for learners with special needs. 

Methods: This study was a descriptive qualitative study. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with six occupational therapists involved in delivering the programme at the school. To ensure ethical compliance, we obtained clearance from the UP-Research Ethics Committee. The collected data underwent reflective thematic analysis for interpretation.

Findings: Three prominent themes surfaced during the study's analysis: (1) The Significance of the Programme: Participants highlighted the importance and benefits of the program. (2) Facilitators affecting school-to-work transition programme: Various factors that positively influenced the smooth transition from school to the workforce were identified and discussed. (3) Barriers to school-to-work transition programme: Participants also pointed out obstacles and challenges that hindered the successful transition from school to the workforce.

Conclusion: The school-to-work transition programme was influenced by personal, environmental, and occupational barriers and facilitators. The findings highlighted that the benefits of the programme should be viewed in a broader context, as learners mature and develop self-confidence. The value of the programme thus extends beyond employment opportunities.

Implications for practice

The research findings inform barriers that need to be focused on in order to have a successful and effective school-to-work transition programme. There are facilitators that show the perceived effectiveness of the school-to-work transition programme, that could assist in motivating for more assistance from stakeholders of the school.