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Sensory Integration Training for Occupational Therapists in New Zealand

Occupational therapists in Aotearoa New Zealand are looking for in-depth, postgraduate-level training in sensory integration that leads to an internationally recognised university qualification and works around clinical practice.

Sensory Integration Education (SIE) has trained Ayres Sensory Integration practitioners since 1994 and delivers its full postgraduate programme fully online, in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University. New Zealand-based clinicians can study with us from anywhere in the country, applying the learning directly to their own caseload.

What sensory integration training means for occupational therapy practice in New Zealand

Ayres Sensory Integration® is an evidence-based framework developed by Dr A. Jean Ayres for understanding how the nervous system organises sensory information.

For occupational therapists, it offers a structured, assessment-led way to support people whose sensory processing develops differently — helping them take part more fully in the activities that matter to them. It is used as one part of a full clinical assessment, alongside an OT's wider professional knowledge.

Why New Zealand OTs train with SIE

SIE offers one of the longest-established sensory integration pathways internationally, validated by Sheffield Hallam University.

You study alongside an international cohort of clinicians, learn from experienced clinician-educators, and apply each stage directly to your own caseload as you progress.

Online delivery designed around New Zealand time zones

The programme is delivered fully online, combining self-paced learning, live small-group tutorials, supervised practical components and mentored clinical practice.

Live sessions are scheduled to suit international cohorts; New Zealand participants typically join in the morning local time, when sessions sit in the late UK evening of the day before. Every live session is recorded, so if a tutorial does not suit your shift pattern, you can catch up later.

You do not need to travel to the UK to complete the programme. Practical and clinical assessment elements can be evidenced through your own work in Aotearoa, with mentor supervision arranged remotely via secure video.

The postgraduate pathway: PGCert, PGDip and MSc

The Sheffield Hallam University programme is structured so you can step on and step off at three recognised exit points:

  • PGCert in Sensory Integration — foundational theory and assessment. Many therapists begin confident clinical application of sensory integration at this point.
  • PGDip in Sensory Integration — advanced assessment, intervention planning and supervised practice.
  • MSc in Sensory Integration — a research module culminating in a clinical research project of your own.

Each stage is a fully recognised Sheffield Hallam University postgraduate qualification under the UK higher education framework.

Recognition for OTNZ-WNA members and the OT Board of New Zealand

Occupational therapists registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand are required to maintain ongoing professional development as part of their Annual Practising Certificate.

SIE's programme is structured postgraduate-level learning that integrates naturally into a CPD portfolio, and members of Occupational Therapy New Zealand Whakaora Ngangahau Aotearoa (OTNZ-WNA) hold our qualifications in clinical practice across the country.

Specific recognition arrangements vary by employer and funding context — we always recommend checking your own workplace requirements before enrolling.

Who can apply

The programme is designed for qualified allied health professionals.

Most participants are occupational therapists, but speech and language therapists, physiotherapists and other registered clinicians working with sensory-related populations are eligible. You will need a relevant first degree, current registration in your country of practice, and access to a clinical caseload to apply the learning.

Next Steps

We are happy to talk through eligibility, timings and fees with any clinician considering postgraduate Ayres Sensory Integration training in New Zealand.