SEN Teachers Qualifications and Code of Practise
Did you know that in 2023, over 1.5 million children in the UK were identified as having special educational needs (SEN), according to Statista? This growing number underscores the critical role that SEN teachers play in shaping the future of education. However, they must acquire the right qualifications first and understand the Code of Practice when entering this field.
Some parents find it hard to understand what certain qualifications are and how to know if a SEN teacher is fit for them. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about SEN education providers, their qualifications and the training they must have. SEN Tutors are experts when it comes to SEN, having helped many SEN children across Hertfordshire. 
What Is a SEN Teacher?
A SEN teacher is someone trained to teach children who have difficulties such as dyslexia, autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, or physical disabilities. They create customised lesson plans and collaborate with parents, carers, and other professionals to support each child’s unique needs.
SEN Teachers Definition
In simple terms, a SEN teacher ensures that every child has an equal opportunity to learn, no matter their challenges. They may work in SEN schools or mainstream schools that have students with additional learning needs.
For more on what’s involved, visit SEN Tutors – What Does SEN Stand For?
SEN Teachers Qualifications: A Detailed Guide
If you’re wondering how a person becomes a SEN teacher for your child, let’s break it down further. Becoming a qualified SEN teacher requires a mix of formal qualifications, specialised training, and practical experience. Here’s a look at what’s involved:
Qualified Teachers Status (QTS)
When becoming a SEN teacher, the first step is obtaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This certification is essential for teaching in state schools across the UK and can be achieved through:
- Undergraduate Degree Routes: Complete a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a Bachelor of Arts/Science (BA/BSc) with QTS.
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE): If they already have a bachelor’s degree, a PGCE provides a pathway to QTS.
- Teaching Apprenticeships: A SEN teacher apprenticeship allows them to gain QTS through on-the-job training while studying. This combines practical experience with academic learning.
Specialised Training
Once they’ve achieved QTS, the next step is specialised training in SEN education. Many SEN courses for teachers focus on understanding and addressing specific learning challenges, including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Learn to design effective teaching strategies for children with autism. Explore SEN tutors’ ASD resources.
- ADHD: Gain insights into supporting students with attention and focus difficulties. Read more about ADHD tutoring here.
- Dyslexia and Dyspraxia: Understand how to adapt teaching methods for reading and handwriting challenges. Check out dyspraxia-specific insights and dyslexia tutoring support.
Professional development courses are often available through universities, private training providers, or organizations like the National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN).
How SEN Teachers Build Experience
Experience is a critical component of becoming a successful SEN teacher. Here’s how SEN teachers at SEN Tutors obtain real-life practice to help your children as tutors:
- Mainstream Teaching: Many schools prefer candidates with mainstream teaching experience before transitioning to SEN roles. This helps them develop core teaching skills.
- Volunteering or Shadowing: Gaining hands-on experience by working with children with special educational needs is invaluable. Look for opportunities in schools, charities, or private tutoring.
- SEN Teaching Assistant Roles: Working as a SEN teaching assistant can provide a practical foundation. They’ll learn how to support SEN students in the classroom while building essential skills.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
To stay updated, teachers often undertake CPD courses. These courses cover advancements in teaching methods, the latest in assistive technologies, and updates to the special education needs code of practice.
Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) Pathway
For teachers aspiring to take on leadership roles, becoming a SENCO is an option for them. As a SENCO, SEN teachers coordinate SEN provision within a school, requiring additional qualifications like the National SENCO Award or similar certifications.
Soft Skills and Personal Qualities
Beyond formal qualifications, SEN teachers need:
- Patience and Empathy: Supporting children with complex needs requires a compassionate approach.
- Adaptability: They must be flexible in teaching methods to meet varied learning styles.
- Strong Communication Skills: Effective collaboration with parents, carers, and professionals is crucial.
SEN Teachers SEN Code of Practice: The Backbone of SEN Education
The Special Education Needs Code of Practice is a vital framework that governs how educational institutions identify and support children with special educational needs (SEN). It provides clear, legally binding guidance for schools, local authorities, and professionals to ensure that every child has access to the resources they need for their development.
What Is the SEN Code of Practice?
The SEN Code of Practice outlines a graduated approach to SEN support, focusing on early identification, intervention, and collaboration between schools, families, and external professionals. Its key principles include:
- Child-Centred Approach: The child’s needs and aspirations are always at the centre of SEN support planning.
- Parental Involvement: Parents and carers play a crucial role in shaping support plans.
- Collaboration: Schools work alongside healthcare providers, social workers, and educational psychologists.
Graduated Approach to SEN Support
The Code emphasises a step-by-step process to assess and support SEN students, known as the “Assess, Plan, Do, Review” cycle.
- Assess: Teachers and SENCOs (Special Educational Needs Coordinators) identify learning barriers through observation and assessments.
- Plan: Based on the assessment, a personalised plan is created with input from parents, students, and professionals.
- Do: The plan is implemented using tailored teaching strategies and resources.
- Review: Regular evaluations ensure that the plan is effective and updated as needed.
This graduated approach helps schools provide targeted support while ensuring transparency with families.
Updates to the SEN Code of Practice
It’s important to note that the Code is regularly reviewed to align with current educational and legal frameworks. Teachers and parents must stay updated to ensure compliance and effectiveness in SEN provision.
The Role of Schools in SEN Support
Every school, whether mainstream or specialised, is required to have a clear strategy for supporting SEN students. Key responsibilities include:
- Maintaining a SEN register to track students with additional needs.
- Appointing a qualified SENCO to coordinate support.
- Providing reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, such as specialised teaching tools or physical accommodations.
Explore more about what happens when schools fail to meet their responsibilities: School Not Meeting Child’s Needs UK.
Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs)
For students with complex or severe needs, the SEN Code of Practice includes guidance on creating an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). These comprehensive plans outline specific goals and the resources required to meet them, integrating education, health, and social care support. Learn how to navigate EHCPs with this helpful guide: EHCP Application Help Guide.
For more insights, visit SEN Tutors – What Is a SEN Plan? Why It’s Worth Looking Into.
The Importance of Home Support in SEN
While schools follow the SEN Code of Practice, home support plays an equally important role. Parents and carers can work with SEN tutors to supplement school efforts and ensure consistency in a child’s learning.
- For children with ADHD: Home Tutoring for Children with ADHD.
- For children with social and emotional needs: Social and Emotional Mental Health Needs.
Why the SEN Code of Practice Matters
The SEN Code of Practice is more than just a set of guidelines—it’s a promise to children with additional needs that they won’t be left behind. By adhering to its principles, schools and families can work together to provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
What Is a SEN Teaching Assistant?
A SEN teaching assistant works alongside SEN teachers to provide extra help in the classroom. They play an essential role in supporting students and ensuring lesson plans are followed effectively.
How SEN Tutors Support Learning at Home
Many parents choose to work with special educational needs tutors for personalised learning support at home. Whether it’s for GCSE prep or specific challenges like ADHD or dyslexia, SEN Tutors provide tailored strategies to help children thrive.
Explore home tutoring options:
FAQs About SEN Teachers
Here are some frequently asked questions about special educational needs teachers:
What Is a SEN School?
A SEN school is a specialised institution designed for children with additional needs. These schools often have smaller class sizes, specially trained staff, and resources tailored to specific learning difficulties.
What Is a SEN Register?
A SEN register is a list of students within a school who have been identified as having special educational needs. Schools use it to track and plan the support each student receives.
What Is SEN Teacher Jobs Availability?
The demand for SEN teachers is high, with many opportunities in both mainstream and specialised schools.
What Are Good SEN Teacher Gifts?
Practical gifts like teaching resources, books, or even self-care items are always appreciated by SEN teachers.
SEN Teachers Are Essential for Children’s Success
SEN teachers play a vital role in the lives of children with special educational needs, ensuring every child receives the personalised education they deserve. With specialised training, qualifications, and a deep understanding of the SEN Code of Practice, SEN teachers create inclusive learning environments. This equips them to create classrooms that empower students to thrive academically and socially.
Whether working in SEN schools, as part of a SEN teaching assistant team, or through personalised services, SEN teachers adapt their teaching strategies to meet diverse needs. If you’re a parent seeking specialised support for your child or interested in working with skilled SEN teachers, look no further than SEN Tutors UK.
Our experienced team of tutors and educational professionals are ready to provide the tailored support your child needs to succeed. ContactSEN Tutors UK today to begin your child’s journey toward a brighter educational future.