If you’re thinking about a career supporting students with special educational needs, you might be wondering—what is the experience needed to work in an SEN school?
At ASENEA, we work closely with SEN schools across Yorkshire to provide compassionate, reliable support staff who can make a real difference in the lives of their students. Here’s what you need to know before applying.
Do You Need Qualifications to Work in an SEN School?
In most support roles, formal teaching qualifications are not required (unless you are watching to be a Teacher/Teaching Assistant. Instead, what schools really look for is the right experience, attitude, and willingness to help.
At ASENEA, we do require all applicants to have at least 3 months of experience working or volunteering in an SEN or SEND school. This ensures that our staff are prepared for the environment and understand the care, patience, and flexibility needed to succeed in these roles.
What is the Kind of Experience Needed to Work in an SEN School?
If you’ve worked in or volunteered at a special school, SEN unit, or a mainstream school with SEN pupils, that experience is highly valuable.
You may also have suitable experience if you’ve worked in:
- Childcare or youth work involving additional needs
- Healthcare or care assistant roles involving personal care
- Support work in residential or educational settings
- 1-to-1 mentoring or classroom assistance with SEN students
Even if it wasn’t paid work, volunteering in a relevant setting shows schools that you’re familiar with the challenges and rewards of supporting students with additional needs.
What Will You Be Doing in an SEN School?
As a support worker in an SEN school, your role might include:
- Helping students stay engaged in the classroom
- Providing 1-to-1 support for specific needs
- Assisting with personal care or behaviour management
- Supporting students during break and lunchtime
- Encouraging social and emotional development
The focus is always on care and support, rather than teaching.
What If You’re Just Getting Started?
If you don’t yet have experience needed to work in an SEN school, we’d recommend looking into volunteering opportunities at local schools. Even a few hours a week over a few months can give you the hands-on experience you need to start applying for paid roles.
We’re always happy to advise on what kind of experience will help you take that first step into SEN support work.
Why Apply with ASENEA?
At ASENEA, we’re passionate about connecting the right people with the right schools. When you join our team, you’ll benefit from:
- Flexible, local shifts
- Excellent pay and next-day payment
- Free, annually updated training (provided by employment.tools)
- Ongoing support from a friendly, experienced team
- The chance to make a real difference every single day
Please Note: We require all applicants to have at least 3 months experience in a SEN school. This can be either through working or volunteering.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’ve got the experience needed to work in an SEN School and the heart for this kind of work, we’d love to hear from you. Apply in minutes and take the first step towards a rewarding role in SEN support.