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2026 Switch Access and Switch-Adapted Technology

ATANZ is excited to host

2026 Switch Access and Switch-Adapted Technology

 

A 7-hour workshop suitable for teachers of learners with PMLD, school-based OTs and SLTs, CDT OTs and SLTs, rehab MDTs, day program facilitators, and whānau

 

 

Presented by

Jacki Mayne-Davis, OT

 

 

Location and date:

Wellington 1 May 2026

Venue: Mercure Abel Tasman Hotel, 169 Willis Street, Te Aro,  Wellington 6011

 

 Time:

  • 8.30 am welcome & registrations for a 9:00 am start
  • 4.00 pm closing

Morning tea (20 minutes) and lunch (45 minutes) and afternoon tea (20 min) will be provided.

 

About this event:

Discover how switch access and switch-adapted technology can transform participation, communication, and learning for children with disabilities. This hands-on workshop, grounded in the latest research and evidence-based practice, is designed for allied health professionals, teachers and whānau across Aotearoa New Zealand. You’ll explore practical frameworks such as CanChild’s F-Words, the Traffic Light Framework, and Linda Burkhart's Stepping Stones to Scan-Select (switch access mastery), which help keep the “big picture” in mind for every child. The workshop emphasises presuming competence, fostering motivation, and integrating switch technology into daily routines at home and in the classroom. 

Participants will gain insights into the theory and science behind switch access, including international approaches and evidence-based strategies. The sessions cover biomechanics, positioning, hardware and software selection, and the logistics of funding and implementation in the New Zealand context. You’ll learn how to select and mount switches, adapt activities for diverse learners, and avoid common pitfalls such as poor posture or overuse injuries. The workshop also highlights local suppliers and funding pathways, ensuring you leave with actionable knowledge for your setting. 

A unique feature of this workshop is its collaborative spirit—attendees are encouraged to share their experiences and questions, drawing on the collective expertise of the “brains trust” of therapists, teachers, and whānau. Practical stations allow you to “have a go” with a wide range of switch devices and adapted toys, guided by experienced professionals. You’ll leave with a toolkit of activity ideas, assessment frameworks, and resources to support your learners’ participation, communication, and independence. 

Whether you’re new to switch adapted technology or looking to reflect on and deepen your practice, this workshop offers inspiration, practical skills, and a supportive network. Join us to connect with peers, access up-to-date resources, and empower the tamariki and rangatahi you support to thrive in all areas of life."

 

About the presenter: 

Jacki Mayne-Davis is a New Zealand Registered Occupational Therapist local to Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland, who trained in Occupational Therapy at James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.  She runs her own private practice, POP Occupational Therapy, pursuing her passion of empowering whānau with knowledge and resources to more confidently support their babies, children or young people living with complex conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Developmental Delay.

Jacki Mayne Davis

 

Minimum numbers:

Events require a minimum of participants to proceed. We'll confirm if we can go ahead, at the latest two weeks before the start date of the event. We offer the option to attend at a different location or a full refund in case we need to cancel. Please keep this in mind when booking any travel and accommodations.

Cancellations by participants less than 14 days before the event will not be refunded. Substitution by another person is possible when you notify us by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than 3 days before the start of the event. Please check out our full Cancellation and Refunds Policy and additional Certificates of Attendance Terms and Conditions here.

 

Who can attend?

This workshop is designed for professionals working face-to-face with children, young people or adults with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). In particular, teachers and therapists supporting learners in specialist schools or mainstream schools; Child Development or Rehab Teams; day program facilitators (adults). Whānau are most welcome and are encouraged to bring one or more of their therapy team (particularly OT and SLT) along to this workshop.

  

Cost: 

  • $375.00 for ATANZ members
  • $425.00 for Non-members (remember membership is $110)
  • $50.00 Whānau/family members

Please check out our Whanau Professional Development and Learning Grant and ATANZ Professional Development Grant

Registrations close 17 April or when sold out – places are limited! 

Ensure you log in with your ATANZ membership to access the member discount rates!

 

Questions:

Please contact us with any questions at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 

 

Event Properties

Event Date 01-05-2026 9:00 am
Event End Date 01-05-2026 4:00 pm
Cut off date 24-04-2026 11:55 pm
Capacity 50
Registered 20
Available place 30
Individual Price Varies by ticket type
Location Mercure hotel Wellington

Location Map