Roma (Abrama) Beukes
Whangārei,New Zealand
Summary
Occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience in South Africa, and additional practice in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Skilled in supporting children, young adults, and their whānau with complex needs, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), sensory processing challenges, and functional independence. Experienced in structured teaching, activities of daily living (ADLs), augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and facilitating Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) for diverse learners. Currently developing expertise in Trauma-Informed Practice and pursuing accreditation in Wheeled Mobility and Postural Management. A collaborative and dedicated practitioner who is passionate about enabling learners to participate fully in all aspects of life, education, and community. Brings empathy, creativity, a sense of humour, and a calm, practical approach to supporting students with diverse needs, fostering confidence, independence, and meaningful engagement.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Occupational Therapist
Blomfield Special School
Whangārei, NZ
03.2024 - Current
- Support transition and senior learners, focusing on ADLs, functional skills, and independence.
- Present small-group Relationships & Sexuality Education (RSE) sessions for selected students.
- Develop structured teaching and sensory regulation programmes.
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and whānau on IEP goals.
- Adapt activities and environments to maximise learner participation.
Occupational Therapist
Unica School for Learners with Autism
Pretoria, SA
01.1998 - 01.2024
- Delivered assessments, group and individual therapy, and sensory programmes.
- Ran parent workshops on autism, sensory differences, and early intervention.
- Supported mainstream schools with behaviour management and inclusion.
- Provided professional development for teachers and community stakeholders.
- Supervised OT students, junior therapists, and assistants.
- Managed departmental budgeting and resourcing.
OT & Technical Assistant
Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
University of Pretoria, SA
01.1997 - 12.1997
- Conducted patient evaluations to assess physical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial functioning, improving communication abilities
Rotational OT
Thameside Community NHS Trust
, UK
01.1995 - 12.1996
OT
Bartimea School for the Deaf and Blind
, SA
01.1993 - 12.1995
Education
B. Occupational Therapy -
University of the Orange Free State
South Africa01.1992
Matric -
Oranje Meisieskool
Bloemfontein01.1987
Skills
- Assessment and intervention for complex needs
- Structured teaching (TEACCH)
- Visual supports
- Social stories development
- Visual schedules for activities of daily living
- Activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Life skills training
- Sensory integration
- Regulation strategies
- Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE)
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Parent/whānau support
- Education and training
- Interdisciplinary teamwork
- Co-presenting groups
- Trauma Informed Practice
Extracurricular Contributions
- Organised cultural and social events (Heritage Day, school dances, concerts).
- Co-coordinator of Unica fundraising market (2015).
- Chairperson of School Concert Committee (2022).
Personal Information
- Nationality: South African
- Visa Status: Straight to Residency Visa (conditions valid until 03/2026)
Languages
- English
- Afrikaans
Hobbies and Interests
- Event planning
- Arts & crafts
- Sewing
- Gardening
- DIY
Professional Development
- Level 1 Wheeled Mobility & Postural Management Training, 2024, currently working towards accreditation
- Makaton training, 2017, latest
- Facilitated Communication and AAC strategies, ongoing
- Tiny Handz (adapted signing)
- TEACCH approach training
- AAC training for therapists, 2019, GDE
- Ongoing learning in Trauma Informed Practice
Professional Registration
Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ), 50-08961, 26KMLU, Registered, holding current practising certificate, 01/04/25, 31/03/26, Health Professions Council of South Africa – O.T.0023361
References
- Mrs. Denise Poole, Speech-Language Therapist, Blomfield Special School, colleague & former team leader, +64 210 279 9223
- Dr. Cobie Lombard, Psychologist & former principal, Unica School, jclombard65@gmail.com
- Mrs. Ilze Pansegrouw, Former Speech Therapist, Unica School, ilze.pansegrouw@gmail.com
Timeline
Occupational Therapist
Blomfield Special School
03.2024 - Current
Occupational Therapist
Unica School for Learners with Autism
01.1998 - 01.2024
OT & Technical Assistant
Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
01.1997 - 12.1997
Rotational OT
Thameside Community NHS Trust
01.1995 - 12.1996
OT
Bartimea School for the Deaf and Blind
01.1993 - 12.1995
B. Occupational Therapy -
University of the Orange Free State
Matric -
Oranje Meisieskool