People with Special Educational Needs, known as SEN, have disabilities that can either be physical, developmental or sensory. Some may have received a diagnosis of conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), while others may live with hearing or visual impairments.
These disorders can make it very difficult for some to learn in an environment designed for neurotypical pupils. Because of this, it can be important to seek out learning opportunities that cater to students with different needs, and that is where SEN teachers are so needed.
The Role of an SEN Teacher
An SEN teacher is responsible for helping those with disabilities learn and engage with school. This can include encouraging pupils to work productively, or modifying lesson plans so that they can meaningfully learn throughout the course of a lesson.
These teachers can work either within specialised schools or mainstream education settings, provided that they establish recognised class settings for students with special educational needs.
But being an SEN teacher is not all about academic work. Sometimes, speech and language therapies will be paramount, while other students will require specialist care when it comes to their social communication development.
Training & Qualifications
To become a teacher for those with special educational needs, you must first option traditional teaching qualifications.
You can choose to take on your training through a variety of avenues which include: a university course, an apprenticeship, working towards the role, or applying directly.
Whichever option you choose, you will need to obtain qualified teacher status (QTS). Some university courses offer avenues towards this, such as the PGCE (postgraduate or professional graduate certificate in education). Alternatively, school-centred initial teacher training (SCITT) or employment-based school district training programmes offer this opportunity.
Despite the academic necessities, it is also vital to remember than a truly great SEN teacher needs only three things: compassion, understanding, and the ability to help anyone get excited about learning.
Teaching At Bright Futures Care
At Bright Futures Care, we provide schooling and residential care to young people with autism, learning disabilities, and complex developmental disorders.
We pride ourselves on providing everybody, regardless of their diagnosis, with high-quality education that can help them meet their personal goals. For some, this may be moving around a classroom safely, while for others this may take the form of achieving a qualification in maths or english.
Our specialist staff members are what makes our facilities one of a kind. They make sure our pupils are safe, happy, and ready to learn.
As a teacher on our team, your role will be to help our students progress as best they can. Taking on this rewarding role will require that you can think on your feet, and that you enjoy a new challenge every day.
Are you ready for the challenge? Visit our website today to apply for the position.
