SEN Teacher Jobs

The specific requirements and qualifications you need may vary depending on the type of SEN teacher role (e.g., primary, secondary, or post-16 education) and the school or educational institution. SEN teachers can also work in various settings, including mainstream schools or special schools, each with its own requirements. In the UK, you typically need to have the following qualifications and experiences:

Teaching qualifications: You should have a recognised teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education (BEd), a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), or another equivalent teaching qualification. This provides you with the necessary teaching skills and knowledge.

QTS (Qualified Teacher Status): You must attain Qualified Teacher Status, a requirement for teaching in maintained schools in England. In Scotland, you’ll need to register with the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS), and in Wales, you’ll need to be registered with the Education Workforce Council (EWC).

Experience: While not always mandatory, having prior teaching experience, especially in special education or working with students with special educational needs, can be a significant advantage.

Special education training: Gaining additional training or qualifications in special education can be beneficial. Courses and certifications related to special educational needs and inclusive education, such as the National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination (NASENCO), can enhance your expertise in this area.

Enhanced DBS check: You’ll be required to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, formerly known as a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau), to ensure your suitability to work with children and vulnerable individuals.

Continuing professional development (CPD): Ongoing professional development is essential for staying up to date with the latest research, teaching strategies, and legal requirements in the field of SEN.

Relevant knowledge: You should have a good understanding of the SEN Code of Practice and relevant legislation, such as the Equality Act 2010 and the Children and Families Act 2014, as these govern SEN provisions in the UK.

At Liquid, we have many SEN roles available in many different settings. Some SEN teachers choose to work in mainstream schools, providing inclusive support to students with special educational needs within regular classroom environments.

There are also SEN teaching jobs in SEN schools, which are designed for students with more complex or severe needs. Additionally, some mainstream schools have resource bases or units specifically for SEN students, enabling SEN teachers to work within both the specialised units and in mainstream classes.

There are opportunities in Pupil Referral Units (PRUs) too, which serve students excluded from mainstream schools, often due to behavioural or learning challenges. There are also hospital schools, where you offer education to students who cannot attend school due to illness or medical conditions, requiring a flexible and adaptable teaching approach.

A career as an SEN teacher can be both challenging and rewarding. Patience and composure are essential attributes when working with children who may have behavioural or communication difficulties. This can help maintain a calm and nurturing environment, supporting students’ learning and growth.

No two days are ever the same as an SEN teacher, so you must be adaptable and resilient in what can be a very rewarding but potentially emotionally demanding role. Communicating clearly and calmly is essential, as there may be times when you’ll be required to have difficult conversations. Understanding how to navigate these with empathy and sensitivity is key to building strong connections with students and parents.

SEN teachers typically work regular school hours, depending on the school’s schedule. These hours often fall within the typical school day, roughly from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. However, this may differ depending on the specific school or educational institution. Some SEN teaching roles can be part-time or have flexible schedules to accommodate their students’ needs or their personal circumstances.

You may also be required to spend additional time outside regular school hours on lesson planning, marking, attending meetings with parents and other staff members, and participating in professional development activities. The exact hours can vary depending on the school’s policies, your workload, and the needs of the students you support.

Finding an SEN teaching job with Liquid couldn’t be easier. Simply send your CV here detailing your SEN qualifications and work experience. Our recruitment specialists will contact you to learn more about you and your job preferences. They’ll review your experience and process your documents to prepare you for work.  Once your registration is complete, we’ll work with you to find the perfect role.