Are you passionate about making a lasting difference in the lives of young people with special educational needs (SEN)?

Do you have classroom experience and a desire to progress your career in a nurturing, inclusive school environment? We are currently seeking an Unqualified SEN Teacher to join a dynamic and supportive special needs school, working with pupils across a range of ages and needs.

This is an excellent opportunity for experienced classroom practitioners ready to take the next step toward teaching, with a clear route to gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for the right candidate once in a permanent position.

About the Role

As an Unqualified SEN Teacher, you will play a vital role in supporting students with a wide range of learning needs, including autism, ADHD, SEMH, and MLD. You’ll work closely with experienced teachers, support staff, and therapists to deliver engaging, individualised lessons that promote both academic and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver and support the implementation of personalised learning plans for students with SEN.
• Assist in planning and delivering engaging and inclusive lessons under the guidance of qualified teaching staff.
• Create a safe, supportive, and positive classroom environment where all pupils can thrive.
• Work collaboratively with teaching assistants, SENCOs, therapists, and parents/carers.
• Contribute to the monitoring, assessment, and documentation of pupil progress and development.
• Use behaviour management strategies effectively to support emotional and behavioural needs.
• Adapt your teaching style and materials to suit a range of individual learning styles and needs.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking individuals who already have experience working in a school or SEN setting and are now ready to step into a more active teaching role. You do not need to be a qualified teacher — but you do need passion, dedication, and a desire to grow.

Essential Skills & Attributes:

• Prior experience working within a classroom, particularly in SEN or inclusive education environments.
• A strong interest in working with children and young people with additional needs (e.g., autism, SEMH, ADHD, MLD).
• Empathy, patience, and a nurturing approach to teaching and support.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence in managing small groups and supporting behaviour positively.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to develop professionally.

Desirable:

• Experience as a teaching assistant (TA), learning support assistant (LSA), or in a similar SEN-related role.
• Knowledge of inclusive practices, behaviour strategies, or alternative communication systems (e.g., PECS, Makaton).

Career Progression Opportunity

This role offers genuine potential for progression. If successful in a permanent role, the school is committed to supporting the right candidate through a recognised teacher training programme leading to QTS — a fantastic opportunity for aspiring SEN teachers to become fully qualified while continuing to gain valuable classroom experience.

What Makes a Strong Unqualified SEN Teacher?

• Compassion & Resilience: The drive to support every child, no matter the challenge.
• Adaptability: Responding effectively to changing classroom dynamics and diverse learner needs.
• Creativity & Initiative: Finding new ways to engage, support, and inspire students.
• A Growth Mindset: A willingness to learn and a passion for professional development.

Application Process

Do you feel you meet the criteria for this exciting opportunity? If so, please apply below or contact Engage Education directly to learn more.

All applicants must have relevant experience working in classroom or school-based settings. For teacher roles, a formally recognised teaching qualification is required — however, this role is open to unqualified teachers with the intention of progressing toward QTS.

If you are not contacted within 2 working days, unfortunately, you have not been successful on this occasion. However, we will retain your CV and continue to support you in your job search.

Engage Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.

By applying for this role, you are consenting to Engage Education Ltd storing your personal details in our fully encrypted database, in line with GDPR requirements.