How can I move into special education?

[Claireybelle]

I currently work in a mainstream primary school. I have a small amount of experience working with SEN children but I would love to improve my knowledge and my experience.Would a special school employ me despite limited training and experience? How can I go about getting experience?

[KatM0067]

Depends on what your degree is in. I know in NY state, you need a degree in Sped in order to teach in these schools. However, a great way to assimilate into Special Schools are to work in a CTT (collaborative team teach) class where you can be the mainstream teacher and you would have a special ed teacher teaching alongside and your classroom would consist of both special ed students and regular ed. It's a great way to see both worlds and decide what you want to do. Volunteering at different organizations like Council for Execeptional Children, special olympics, etc. is a great way for employers to see ur dedication to these amazing people.

[CATtheTYPOQUEEN]

In OK you need to be trained as a SPED teacher. Where do you live? Call the state Board fo ED there. OR a local college.

[froggequene]

Speak to your SENCO/Inclusion manager, they're usually informed about one day workshops/seminars run by Local Authority service providers, which may be of interest to you. If you can speak to the professionals who visit the school, Educational Psychologists (EP), Speech & Language Therapists, etc - you could also ring their services, particularly the EPS or those who have charge of the additional needs services (Autism Team, Language Support Team, etc). You could also take the bull by the horns & ring one of the special schools in your area, someone should be able to tell you what they look for. Watch your Local Authority website, vacancies for school jobs are usually advertised there, so it should give you an idea of what they're looking.

[MeInThisWorld2681]

probably as a teacher's aid