Career
Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF) stands as a reputable and experienced provider of Early Intervention Programmes tailored for children with Down syndrome. With 35 years of dedicated service, KDSF remains a steadfast advocate for the developmental needs of these children.
As an organization recognized for excellence, we are looking for passionate individuals ready to make a meaningful impact. If you have the passion, creativity, and drive to support young learners, we offer comprehensive training and a fulfilling career path in special education, child psychology, or early intervention.
Be a part of our mission and help shape a brighter future for every child we serve.
I have been a Kiwanis teacher at KDSF-JB for 30 years. I have experienced the joys, challenges, and triumphs of this journey. I have learned, and I continue to learn, from everyone around me. To my fellow teachers—both those who have worked alongside me in the past and those who are still with me today—I truly appreciate each and every one of you. You have stood by me through both difficult and joyful times. To the parents, you have taught me patience, understanding, and the importance of collaboration in planning for your children’s future.
I aspire to continue dedicating myself to serving the students and their families for as long as my strength and expertise are needed.
Professional Duties & Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) for each student in collaboration with parents, teaching staff and therapists.
- Design and carry out lesson plans that align with IEP goals and the centre’s curriculum.
- Maintain up-to-date records of students’ progress and prepare Progress Reports.
- Communicate regularly with parents and therapists to discuss the students’ progress and provide updates.
- Prepare and create teaching materials to enhance students’ learning experiences.
- Participate and provide input in team meetings to discuss students’ progress and collaborate on strategies for their development.
- Attend training and workshops to improve professional competence.
- Participate and support school events and fundraising activities.
- Perform any other duties requested by the Lead Teacher, Head Teacher, Operations Director or the Management of KDSF and KDSF-NC.
Knowledge, Experience & Skills
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or a related field, or equivalent. Teaching certification in Special Education or equivalent (e.g., dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders) are a plus.
- Minimum of 1-2 years of experience as a Special Educational Needs Teacher or in a related educational role.
- Good communication skills and a passion for working with special needs children
- Good command of both English and Bahasa Melayu.
Professional Duties & Key Responsibilities
- Therapeutic Responsibilities
- Conduct physiotherapy/occupational therapy sessions tailored to each student’s individual needs.
- Perform assessments for children with Down Syndrome seeking enrollment to determine program suitability.
- Collaborate with parents to develop and implement Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP) addressing each child’s unique requirements.
- Work with teaching staff and therapists to design and implement Individual Education Plans (IEP) aligned with the IFSP.
- Provide direct therapy sessions for students as required to ensure the achievement of developmental goals outlined in students’ IEPs.
- Plan and prepare therapy materials to enhance students’ learning experiences.
- Collaboration and Communication
- Coordinate with teaching staff to integrate physiotherapy/occupational therapy goals into the Early Intervention Program (EIP).
- Collaborate with parents and external professionals to enhance the child’s educational and therapeutic program.
- Meet and communicate regularly with parents to update them on their child’s progress and provide strategies for home reinforcement.
- Program Development and Training
- Identify gaps in therapy programs and develop new strategies or programs to address challenges effectively.
- Conduct training sessions and workshops for families to equip them with skills and knowledge for active EIP support.
- Documentation and Professional Development
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of each student’s progress and prepare Progress Reports.
- Attend seminars, training, and workshops related to Down Syndrome, physiotherapy and early intervention programs. Share acquired knowledge with colleagues and submit training materials to the Centre’s library.
- Administrative & Other Responsibilities
- Participate and provide input in team meetings
- Participate and support school events and fundraising activities.
- Perform any other duties requested by the Operations Director or the Management of KDSF and KDSF-NC.
Knowledge, Experience & Skills
- Diploma or Degree in Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy from a recognized institution.
- Previous experience in non-profit organizations or working with special needs or in early intervention settings is an advantage.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, especially when working with families and multidisciplinary teams.
- Excellent writing and communication skills in both English and Bahasa Melayu.
- Adaptability to handle challenges and tailor strategies to individual needs.