Your Guide to Starting a Career in SEND Education: For Teachers and Support Staff
Are you passionate about embarking on a career in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) education but unsure what qualifications and personal traits are most valued by schools? Look no further! Whether you’re aiming to teach or provide support, our comprehensive guide outlines what employers want to see on your CV.
For Teachers: Paving Your Path to a SEND Teaching Career
To become a SEND, Primary, or Secondary teacher, you’ll need to showcase advanced qualifications that demonstrate your commitment to education. Key qualifications include:
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS)
These qualifications form the foundation of a successful teaching career in SEND.
For Support Staff: Diverse Roles with Flexible Entry Points
Support staff are the backbone of SEND education, covering a wide range of roles such as:
- Teaching Assistant (TA)
- SEND Teaching Assistant
- Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
- Behaviour Support Worker
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
- Pastoral Support Worker
- Learning Mentor
- Speech & Language Therapist (SALT)
- Communication Support Worker (e.g., BSL proficiency)
Employers often look for a mix of qualifications and experience. Commonly sought-after credentials include:
- Teaching Assistant Levels 1, 2, or 3
- Health & Social Care Certificate
- Psychology or Special Education Degrees
- Counselling Qualifications
- Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce
- Childcare or Education Qualifications
- Support Work Certificates and Practical Experience
For roles such as Cover Supervisors, Tutors, or Instructors, formal qualifications may not always be required. However, having one of the following can give you a competitive edge:
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
- PTTLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector)
- Certificate in Education
Boost Your CV with These Additional SEND-Specific Qualifications
Want to make your application stand out? These qualifications are highly valued:
- SENCo Certification: For teachers aiming to become Special Educational Needs Coordinators.
- SEN-Specific Training: Including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Awareness, Dyslexia/Dyspraxia Certifications, ADHD Awareness, and Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) courses.
- First Aid and Safety Certifications: Such as Paediatric First Aid and De-escalation and Restraint Training (e.g., MAPA, CPI).
- Mental Health Training: Courses in mental health first aid and trauma-informed care.
- Assistive Technology Expertise: Proficiency in tools and software designed for SEND students.
- Education Psychology or Child Development Studies: Degrees or short courses in these fields.
- Language Proficiency: Knowledge of sign languages like Makaton or British Sign Language (BSL).
- Behaviour Management Certification: Training in Positive Behavioural Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
Traits Schools Look for in SEND Professionals
A stellar CV is just the start. Your personal traits and professional skills are equally important. Successful candidates in SEND roles exhibit:
- Patience and Empathy: Staying calm and supportive in challenging situations.
- Adaptability and Creativity: Tailoring strategies to meet individual student needs.
- Strong Communication Skills: From active listening to engaging with non-verbal children.
- Collaboration: Working closely with families, colleagues, and external specialists.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Addressing learning barriers with innovative solutions.
- Resilience and Emotional Regulation: Managing emotionally demanding scenarios effectively.
- Cultural Competence and Inclusivity: Respecting and supporting diverse needs and backgrounds.
- Organizational and Observational Skills: Managing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and monitoring progress.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with educational technology and communication aids.
- Commitment to Growth: Pursuing ongoing professional development in SEND education.
Your Next Steps
Whether you’re pursuing a teaching role or aiming to support students directly, there are endless opportunities in SEND education. With the right qualifications, skills, and passion for inclusivity, you’ll be on your way to making a meaningful difference in the lives of students with special needs.
Start crafting your CV today—and open the door to a fulfilling SEND career!