How to Get a Job in a SEN School

SEN schools are incredibly rewarding places to work. If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with special educational needs, here’s how to get started.

1. Understand What SEN Means

SEN stands for Special Educational Needs. This can include a wide range of conditions, such as autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, sensory impairments, or physical disabilities. Every child is different - and so is every SEN setting.

2. Get Some Relevant Experience

You don’t need years of experience to get started, but some exposure helps a lot. You could:

• Volunteer at a local SEN school

• Work as a general Teaching Assistant

• Join holiday clubs or youth programmes that support children with additional needs

Even a few hours a week can make your application stand out.

3. Know What Roles Are Available

There are lots of different roles in SEN schools:

• SEN Teaching Assistant

• 1:1 Support Staff

• Learning Support Assistant (LSA)

• Behaviour Support Worker

• SEN Teacher (with QTS)

Some roles are entry-level, others need extra training. If you're unsure, SOAR can help guide you.

4. Get the Right Training

For support roles, many schools look for:

• Level 2 or 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning

• Courses in autism awareness or behaviour management

• First Aid and safeguarding training

For teaching roles, you'll need:

• QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)

• Experience working with EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans)

• A strong understanding of differentiation and inclusion

You can also do short CPD courses online to boost your skills.

5. Show the Right Qualities

SEN schools are looking for calm, caring and patient people. You’ll need to be:

• Adaptable

• Empathetic

• A good communicator

• Willing to learn

If that sounds like you, you're already on the right track.

6. Tailor Your Application

When applying, highlight any experience with SEN pupils — even if it was brief. Talk about how you supported them, what strategies you used, and what you learned.

Don’t forget to mention:

• Teamwork

• Safeguarding knowledge

• Your commitment to inclusion

Final Thought

Working in a SEN school is one of the most rewarding paths in education. You’ll support children who need it most — and help them achieve things they never thought possible.

Ready to start your SEN journey? Speak to SOAR. We work with a wide range of SEN schools and can help place you in a role where you'll truly make a difference.