What Schools Look for in Strong SEN Practitioners

 

Before deciding whether SEN is right for you, it helps to understand the qualities that make the biggest impact. These are not strict requirements. Instead, they are natural strengths that help you build trust and support children effectively.

 

Consistency and reliability

Predictable routines and steady support help children feel safe. Once they feel secure, they are far more ready to learn and take part in the day.

Behaviour support skills

Being able to stay grounded under pressure, notice early signs of distress and celebrate small achievements is incredibly valuable in SEN settings.

Experience from caring or creative roles

If you have worked closely with individuals or led group activities, you have likely built the awareness and adaptability that SEN teaching relies on.

Balancing help with independence

The aim is not to do things for children, but to guide them as they learn to do things for themselves. Offering support while still encouraging independence helps them grow in confidence.

How to Prepare for a SEN Role

 

If you are considering a move into SEN, preparation can help you feel more confident and ready from your very first day.

 

  • Arrange a visit to the school or setting: Observe routines, meet staff and get a feel for the day-to-day environment.

 

  • Read the safeguarding and child protection policy: Make sure you know who the Designated Safeguarding Lead is and understand the key procedures.

 

  • Take part in relevant training: Build confidence around communication methods, behaviour approaches or specific needs you may encounter.

 

  • Build positive relationships with teaching assistants: Learn from their experience and gather insight into routines, strategies and what works well for each child.

 

  • Learn what motivates each child: Take note of their interests, triggers and calming strategies so you can connect with them more quickly.

Training courses:

As you continue exploring a possible future in SEN, it can help to learn about the training that supports this work. In addition, gaining knowledge through short courses can boost your confidence before stepping into a new role. These courses also introduce key ideas that shape high quality support for children with additional needs. You can also build useful skills at a pace that feels manageable for you. With this in mind, the options below provide a strong starting point for anyone interested in SEN.

 

Safeguarding Children with SEND

Training from the NSPCC is an introductory course for teaching staff who work with SEND children.

Supporting Children with SEND in the Early Years

This course covers the legal obligations and inclusivity for children with SEND. 

Special Educational Needs – Advanced

Delivered by LearnDirect, this is ideal for those who want to develop a deeper understanding of SEND. 

The Master for Education (mEd) SEND Programme

Choose from a broad range of essential subjects, such as Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs, Enquiry-based SEND Practice, and Severe, Profound and Complex Learning Difficulties and Disabilities. 

 

Exceptional SENDCOs, SEND Teachers and SEND TAs are vital in delivering this style of bespoke education. It takes someone with high levels of creativity, intuition, and patience to provide the adapted learning needed for a SEND child to reach their full educational potential. 

Where next? 

 

To find out more about specialist and rewarding roles within SEND, read our interview with a SEND Teacher to understand their day-to-day duties and our SEND School Settings information to find out more about working in a specialist school.

Explore SEN roles with Career Teachers

If you are ready to take the next step, our team can guide you through current opportunities and help you find a role that matches your strengths and experience.

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