Transitioning into a role at a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school is a unique experience, filled with rewarding opportunities as well as challenges. New staff members in SEND schools play a vital role in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that allows students with varying needs to thrive. While challenging it can also be thoroughly rewarding, With vehement preparation and some tips dealing with these challenges can be a cakewalk.
Understanding the Needs of Students
1. Know Your Students
Understanding each student’s unique needs is essential for effective support in a SEND school. Students in SEND environments often have a range of specific requirements, including behavioural triggers, sensory sensitivities, and varying communication abilities. Familiarise yourself with the educational and emotional profiles of the children you’ll work with, which may include detailed individualised education plans (IEPs). Knowing each student’s triggers and preferences enables you to tailor your approach to foster comfort and engagement in the classroom.
2. Consult with Experienced Staff
The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and seasoned colleagues are valuable sources of information. Engaging with them will provide you insights into student backgrounds, behavioural techniques, and classroom management strategies tailored for SEND. Experienced staff members can share specific anecdotes and strategies that have been effective, helping you build an informed foundation to work from.
Training and Professional Development
3. Seek Relevant Training
Training is essential for understanding specific disabilities and conditions that are prevalent in SEND schools. Look into programs that focus on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, speech and language needs, and other relevant areas. Many schools offer introductory courses or workshops, while external resources like Makaton training, sensory awareness, and manual handling techniques can further enhance your knowledge and skills.
4. Commit to Continuous Learning
SEND education is a constantly evolving field. Stay updated with resources such as online courses, specialised literature, and workshops. By regularly engaging in professional development, you can ensure that your approach remains informed and flexible, adapting to both student needs and the latest educational methodologies. Some schools may also offer funding or support for ongoing courses that focus on SEND education and classroom strategies.
Familiarising Yourself with School Policies
5. Understand School Procedures and Policies
SEND schools often have specific policies and procedures in place, including those related to behaviour management, safety protocols, and IEPs. Familiarise yourself with these guidelines as they will be crucial in maintaining a safe and structured learning environment. Behaviour management policies, for example, may differ in SEND settings, where positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques are often prioritised.
6. Adapt Your Teaching Strategies
SEND students require a differentiated approach to learning. Tailor your lesson plans to align with their cognitive and personal needs, ensuring activities are engaging and appropriate. Many SEND schools follow frameworks that emphasise sensory play, physical movement, and interactive learning, which can make lessons more accessible and enjoyable for students. Be flexible with lesson plans, and adjust based on the energy levels, interests, and responsiveness of your students.
Building Relationships
7. Establish Trust with Students
Building rapport with SEND students can take time, but it is essential for effective communication and engagement. Begin with small, positive interactions, and gradually introduce yourself to students in a way that respects their comfort levels. Use friendly body language, maintain eye contact (where appropriate), and be patient. Establishing trust will make it easier for students to feel secure in the classroom environment.
8. Engage with Families and Caregivers
Parents and caregivers can provide valuable insight into their child’s needs, preferences, and challenges. Establish open lines of communication with families and involve them in setting goals and expectations for their children. Regular updates, either through email or a communication book, can help families feel connected to their child’s progress and contribute to consistent support at home and school.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
9. Promote Inclusivity in the Classroom
An inclusive environment is key to helping SEND students feel valued and understood. Use diverse teaching methods to cater to various learning styles and abilities. Incorporate sensory-friendly options, like quiet areas and fidget tools, to help students manage their sensory needs. Inclusive teaching allows every student to access the learning material in a way that suits them, promoting a more comfortable classroom setting.
10. Encourage Peer Interaction
Promote social skills and teamwork by facilitating peer interaction in the classroom. Group activities, collaborative tasks, and structured playtime can help students learn to work together and build relationships. Peer interaction can be beneficial for both social development and academic learning, as students often learn from one another in unexpected ways. A study shows that peer interaction enables these students to share their high-level ideas and learning objectives, and promoting the development of students’ critical thinking skills to upto 40%.
Monitoring Progress
11. Regular Assessments and Monitoring
Regular assessments are crucial in evaluating each student’s progress. Track both academic and behavioural milestones to gain a comprehensive understanding of how students are developing. Many SEND schools use assessment tools designed for special needs education, which may include adaptive testing and observational notes. Adjust teaching methods based on these evaluations to better meet each student’s unique learning pace.
12. Create Feedback Loops
Feedback from students, parents, and colleagues can be invaluable for improving your approach. Establish channels for regular feedback, whether it’s through student reflections, parent-teacher meetings, or peer evaluations. Constructive feedback allows you to refine your teaching practices, adapt lesson plans, and build stronger relationships within the school community.
Maintaining Positivity
13. Celebrate Small Victories
Progress in SEND education can sometimes appear incremental, but celebrating small victories with your students goes a long way in boosting morale. Acknowledge their achievements, no matter how small, and create an atmosphere where students feel proud of their progress. Positive reinforcement not only encourages students but also fosters a warm and supportive classroom environment.
14. Incorporate Fun Activities
Learning doesn’t have to be serious all the time. Adding fun, interactive activities into your lessons can improve student engagement and morale. Activities that include games, crafts, or music can help students feel more comfortable and connected to the material. The positive energy that fun activities bring can have a profound effect on students’ enthusiasm for learning.
Seeking Support
15. Utilise School Resources
SEND schools often provide a wealth of resources to support both staff and students. Don’t hesitate to reach out to colleagues, school administrators, or local SEND teams if you need guidance or resources. Collaboration within the school can foster a supportive work environment, where sharing ideas and strategies is encouraged. These resources are there to help you succeed in your role and provide the best possible support to students.
16. Engage in Professional Development Opportunities
Professional development opportunities specifically focused on SEND can greatly enhance your expertise. Look into continuing professional development (CPD) courses that cover best practices, legal considerations, and the latest techniques in SEND education. By actively participating in CPD courses, you will stay equipped with the tools needed to meet the evolving demands of SEND education.
Working in a SEND school offers a fulfilling, albeit challenging, career path. For new staff members, understanding the specific needs of students, engaging in ongoing training, and maintaining open communication with families are essential components of success. By fostering an inclusive environment, building relationships with students and colleagues, and continually refining teaching strategies, new staff can create a supportive and effective learning environment that allows SEND students to reach their potential. Adapting to the unique landscape of SEND education may take time, but the rewards of helping students thrive make it a worthwhile journey.
Your journey of the favourite teacher starts with Long Term Futures Recruitment
Looking for your next teaching opportunity? At Long Term Futures, we specialise in connecting passionate educators with the best vacancies in SEND and mainstream schools. Upload your CV today to access a wide range of teaching roles tailored to your expertise. Explore our extensive resources, designed to support your teaching journey, and check out our Learning Hub for invaluable insights and training opportunities. Whether you’re new to the profession or an experienced educator, Long Term Futures Recruitment is here to support your career every step of the way. Contact us today to take the next step in your teaching career!