School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving education sector, the focus on school-based physical therapy assistants is increasingly significant.

As the landscape of education and healthcare intertwines, the demand for skilled professionals who can support, enhance, and safeguard our school-based physical therapy programs grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a school-based physical therapy assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or merely interested in the inner workings of school-based physical therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable school-based physical therapy assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants support Physical Therapists in managing and improving the physical development and functionality of students.

They play an essential role in educational settings by helping students with physical disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the implementation of physical therapy treatment plans developed by the Physical Therapist
• Helping students perform therapeutic exercises and activities
• Monitoring and documenting students’ progress and reporting back to the supervising Physical Therapist
• Assisting students in using assistive devices, like walkers or wheelchairs
• Performing and assisting in therapeutic massage and physical therapy treatments
• Providing support to students during physical education classes or school activities
• Maintaining a safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations
• Contributing to a team effort by accomplishing related results as needed
• Communicating with parents, teachers and other school staff to ensure students’ needs are being met

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant to join our team.

The ideal candidate will assist in the treatment of students with physical impairments or disabilities, under the direction of a licensed Physical Therapist.

The responsibilities include assisting in the implementation of individual treatment plans, documenting student progress, and helping students improve their mobility and build strength.

A strong understanding of child development and a passion for working with students is essential.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist the Physical Therapist in implementing individualized treatment plans for students.
• Document student progress and provide feedback to the Physical Therapist.
• Use therapeutic exercise, mobility training, and other treatment techniques to help improve student mobility and build strength.
• Maintain a safe and clean therapy area.
• Participate in team meetings and communicate with parents, teachers, and other school staff as needed.
• Stay updated on current physical therapy practices and techniques for children.

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy or related field.
• Current state licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
• Experience working with children, preferably in a school setting.
• Knowledge of therapeutic exercise and other physical therapy treatment techniques.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow the direction of a Physical Therapist.
• CPR and first aid certification.

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: School setting. May require travel between different school locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Physical Therapist or Therapy Services Coordinator.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Do?

A School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant typically works in educational institutions, assisting Physical Therapists in providing therapy to students with physical disabilities or injuries.

Their main job is to execute therapy programs designed by the Physical Therapists, which aim to improve students’ physical capabilities, like motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination.

This includes instructing and assisting students in doing specific exercises or using certain equipment.

They are also responsible for observing and documenting the students’ progress and reporting this information back to the Physical Therapist.

This helps in adjusting treatment plans if necessary and ensuring that therapy goals are being met.

In addition to these duties, they may also be responsible for helping students with daily tasks that may be difficult due to their physical limitations.

This can include things like moving around the school or using school facilities.

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants often work closely with teachers and parents to ensure that the therapeutic strategies being used in school are continued at home.

This ensures a consistent approach to the student’s physical development and rehabilitation.

Their role is not just limited to physical therapy, they also often provide emotional support to students, helping them to stay positive and motivated during their therapy sessions.

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A competent School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles and practices to provide effective assistance to the physical therapist and support to students needing therapy.
• Ability to work with children of varying age groups and disabilities, often requiring patience and a positive, encouraging attitude.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with students, parents, teachers, and other school staff, as well as to understand and follow the instructions of the supervising physical therapist.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist with therapeutic exercises and activities, often involving bending, lifting, or standing for extended periods.
• Observational skills to monitor and document students’ progress and responses to therapy, providing feedback to the physical therapist.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple students’ therapy schedules and maintain accurate records of their treatment plans and progress.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt therapy activities to individual students’ needs and abilities, and to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during therapy sessions.
• Training or certification as a Physical Therapy Assistant, and familiarity with special education regulations and practices.

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants typically begin their career journey with an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program.

These programs often include a significant amount of practical experience through clinical internships or hands-on training.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in physical therapy settings, often gained through internships or part-time roles in healthcare facilities.

They could also gain experience by working in a variety of environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes, or private practice physical therapy clinics.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience have likely developed their skills and knowledge in entry-level Physical Therapy Assistant roles.

They may have specific experience working in a school-based setting, which could include working with children with a variety of physical challenges and developmental disabilities.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some supervisory or leadership experience in their background.

They may be ready for roles that involve overseeing the work of other therapy assistants or coordinating therapy programs for specific student populations.

It is also important for School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants to have experience working with a diverse student population, understanding and adhering to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and collaborating effectively with other educational and healthcare professionals.

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Physical Therapy Assistants in a school-based setting typically require an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program.

These programs provide a combination of classroom learning and clinical experience.

Subjects often include anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

In addition, they must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to become a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant.

This license is a requirement in all states.

The exact licensing requirements may vary from state to state, so it’s essential to check with the local state board.

School-based Physical Therapy Assistants may also require some experience in pediatric physical therapy or have completed coursework in pediatric-related subjects.

Although not mandatory, additional certifications in pediatric physical therapy can help in demonstrating the assistant’s expertise and dedication to this specific field.

These certifications can be obtained through various professional health organizations.

Continuing education is also essential for School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants to stay updated with the latest techniques, research, and best practices in the field of physical therapy.

Ongoing education can be achieved through workshops, seminars, or specialized courses.

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

A School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant earns an average salary of $53,835 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the specific school district.

 

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant need?

School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants should have strong interpersonal skills as they interact closely with children, teachers, and parents.

They need to have a compassionate and patient approach, especially when dealing with children with special needs.

It’s crucial for them to possess good physical stamina and strength for assisting in physical therapy sessions.

They should also have excellent observation skills to monitor a child’s progress and adjust therapy plans accordingly.

 

Do School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants need a degree?

Yes, School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program.

Following their education, they must also pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to obtain licensure or certification, which is required in most states.

 

What should you look for in a School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant resume?

A School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant resume should include their degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program and their licensure or certification.

They should have experience working with children, preferably in a school or educational setting.

Additional qualifications, such as training in pediatric physical therapy or experience with special needs children, are also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant?

A good School-Based Physical Therapy Assistant is patient and empathetic, understanding that progress may be slow and that each child has unique needs and abilities.

They should be passionate about helping children reach their full potential and have strong communication skills to liaise between teachers, parents, and the children themselves.

Creativity in designing engaging and effective therapy sessions can also be a valuable quality.

 

Is it difficult to hire School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants?

The challenge in hiring School-Based Physical Therapy Assistants can often lie in finding candidates with the right blend of professional qualifications, practical experience in a school setting, and personal attributes such as patience, creativity, and excellent communication skills.

It’s important to have a rigorous hiring process, including practical assessments and interviews with multiple stakeholders, to ensure a good fit for the role and the school community.

 

Conclusion

So, now you know.

Today, we’ve unraveled the essential attributes of a school-based physical therapy assistant.

But guess what?

It’s not merely about stretching and strengthening exercises.

It’s about sculpting the foundation of well-being for students, one therapy session at a time.

With our dependable school-based physical therapy assistant job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Go beyond with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapy session contributes to the broader purpose.

Let’s shape the future of student health. Together.

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