If you’re considering a career shift into Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) education, you’re taking a step toward a rewarding and impactful profession. At TeachingPro, we’ve seen firsthand how transitioning into SEND can open doors to meaningful work, whether you’re coming from mainstream teaching, a different educational background, or an entirely unrelated sector.
This guide provides practical advice for navigating the move into SEND, building on insights experience and resources.
Why Consider a Career in SEND?
SEND teaching is about more than instruction; it’s about empowerment. Working with children and young people with diverse needs allows you to:
- Make a Difference: Help students achieve milestones that may seem small but are life-changing for them and their families.
- Develop Specialised Skills: Gain expertise in areas such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), speech and language difficulties, and behavioural management.
Experience Personal Growth: Challenge yourself to think creatively and approach problems with empathy and resilience.
to begin your journey into SEND teaching!
Step 1: Understand the SEND Sector
Before transitioning, take the time to research and understand the SEND landscape. Key areas include:
- Types of Needs: Familiarise yourself with the categories of SEND, such as cognitive and learning difficulties, sensory impairments, and physical disabilities.
- Settings: SEND roles exist in various environments, including specialised schools, mainstream schools with SEND units, and community programs.
- Legal Frameworks: Learn about relevant legislation like the SEND Code of Practice, which governs how educational institutions support students with SEND.
Step 2: Assess Your Transferable Skills
Your existing skills can be a valuable asset in SEND. Consider how your experiences align with SEND teaching:
- Communication: Experience in simplifying complex ideas is invaluable when working with children with speech or language challenges.
- Adaptability: The ability to adjust your approach based on diverse needs will be critical in a SEND setting.
- Patience and Empathy: These traits are often more important than technical expertise.
to learn more about our resources and support for SEND educators.
Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience
If you’re new to SEND, gaining hands-on experience can make your transition smoother:
- Volunteer or Shadow: Many SEND schools welcome volunteers or offer shadowing opportunities.
- Training Programs: Enroll in SEND-specific training or certification courses. At TeachingPro, we offer workshops that introduce you to essential SEND strategies and best practices.
Short-Term Roles: Consider roles like teaching assistant or learning support assistant to get a feel for the field.
Step 4: Build Your Knowledge and Network
Professional development and networking are key to a successful transition:
- Learn from Experts: Attend conferences, webinars, or local meetups focused on SEND education.
- Connect with SEND Professionals: Join online forums or LinkedIn groups to exchange insights and find mentorship opportunities.
- Stay Updated: Follow our blogs for the latest trends and advice in SEND and other professions.
Step 5: Transition with Confidence
Finally, when you’re ready to leap, ensure your application stands out:
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant skills and experiences, even if they’re from outside education.
- Show Your Commitment: Demonstrate your passion for SEND through volunteer work, training, or personal projects.
- Ace the Interview: Prepare to discuss how your background equips you for SEND roles and your vision for supporting students.
Switching to a career in SEND is a journey of growth and fulfilment. At TeachingPro, we’re here to support educators at every step, offering guidance and resources tailored to the unique demands of SEND teaching. If you’re ready to embark on this transformative path, we encourage you to explore our resources and join a community dedicated to inclusive education.
