What are Special Education Needs (SEN) Teachers?
The role of a Special Education Needs (SEN) teacher is usually to work with pupils who have learning difficulties, behavioural problems or physical or sensory disabilities. Whilst the National Curriculum is followed as closely as possible, sometimes the subject being taught is adapted slightly in order to suit the needs of the students.
The job of a SEN teacher is both challenging and rewarding. It covers many different aspects and is likely to vary hugely on a day to day basis. The tasks which are carried out can include:
- Preparing materials, equipment and lessons
- Assessing the individual learning needs of your pupils
- Evaluating and reporting pupils’ progress to teachers, carers, healthcare professionals and anybody else who helps that individual
- Assisting with the personal care needs of pupils
- Coping with seriously challenging behaviour and dealing with difficult situations
- Liaising with parents’ carers and other professionals who are working with the pupil
- Supervising activities such as trips locally or abroad
In order to complete the tasks mentioned above, SEN Teachers should be:
- Skilled at overcoming communication difficulties
- Very patient, persevering and positive
- Calm but assertive when confronting aggressive behaviour
- Able to command attention
- Focused, observant and responsive
- Creative thinkers
- Compassionate towards those they are trying to help
Special Education Needs teachers may encounter pupils with a range of different needs. They can choose whether to assist those with specific disabilities or can teach a range of different students. Typically, SEN teachers can work with pupils suffering with:
- Dyslexia or Dyscalculia
- Autism or severe epilepsy
- Moderate, severe or profound learning difficulties
- Visual or hearing impairments
- Mobility problems
- Behavioural challenges
- Psychiatric problems
The qualifications required to become a Special Education Needs teacher are dependant on the particular needs of the pupils they wish to teach. For example, an individual who wants to teach those with hearing impairments will find that knowing sign language is a massive advantage.
Eteach has a range of SEN jobs available to those who wish to work with pupils who have special needs. If you require more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact us on 0845 226 1909 and somebody will be happy to assist you.