- Author
- Abi Talbot
- Published
- 23rd January, 2026
For many education professionals, a career in teaching or classroom support doesn’t follow one fixed path. As experience grows, it’s natural to start exploring new environments, different challenges and more specialist roles.
One move that many professionals consider is transitioning from mainstream education into Special Educational Needs (SEN) education. Whether you’re a qualified teacher or a teaching assistant, this shift can be a rewarding next step — but it’s important to understand what SEN education involves, what skills are needed and how it differs from mainstream settings.
At Service Care Solutions, we support education professionals across a wide range of teaching jobs and SEN jobs. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about making the move.
Mainstream and SEN Education
Mainstream education and SEN education serve different purposes, but both are essential to the wider education system.
Mainstream schools focus on delivering the national curriculum to larger classes, often with structured lesson plans, assessments and academic targets. Teachers and teaching assistants in these settings develop strong classroom management skills, curriculum knowledge and the ability to engage groups of learners with different abilities.
SEN education, on the other hand, provides tailored support for pupils with additional needs such as autism, ADHD, SEMH, learning difficulties or complex needs. Class sizes are usually smaller, learning is more personalised and progress is often measured in development, confidence and independence rather than academic outcomes alone.
Neither route is “better” — they simply require different approaches, strengths and expectations.
Why Education Professionals Consider Moving into SEN
Many teachers and teaching assistants move into SEN education for reasons such as:
- Wanting to work more closely with individual pupils
- Looking for a different teaching environment
- Gaining specialist experience in autism, ADHD or behavioural support
- Seeking a role where progress is seen in personal development as well as academics
- Wanting variety beyond the mainstream classroom structure
For some, SEN roles become a long-term career path. For others, they offer valuable experience that strengthens future teaching opportunities.
What SEN Education Is Really Like
Working in SEN education is often misunderstood. While it can be more hands-on, it is also highly structured, well supported and collaborative. SEN teachers and support staff work closely with therapists, SENCOs, behaviour specialists and families to create consistent routines and learning plans.
Teaching may look different — lessons might include sensory activities, life skills, communication work or emotional regulation — but the underlying goal remains the same: helping pupils reach their potential in a way that works for them.
Skills Needed for SEN Teachers and Teaching Assistants
If you’re considering SEN jobs, many of the skills you already use in mainstream education are highly transferable.
Key skills for SEN teachers and teaching assistants include:
- Strong communication
- Patience and empathy
- Adaptability
- Emotional intelligence
- Teamwork
- Consistency
These skills are often already well developed in mainstream teachers and teaching assistants, which is why many adapt well to SEN environments.
Qualifications Needed to Work in SEN Education
One common question we hear is: Do I need extra qualifications to work in SEN education? and that answer depends on the role.
SEN Teaching Assistant roles
Many SEN teaching assistant positions do not require specialist qualifications to begin with, particularly for entry-level or support roles. However, schools often value:
- Previous classroom experience
- Experience supporting additional needs (formal or informal)
- Safeguarding and behaviour management training
- A willingness to learn and develop
Additional training in autism awareness, ADHD, or behaviour support can strengthen applications but is not always essential at entry level.
SEN Teacher roles
To work as a SEN teacher, you will usually need:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Experience in a classroom environment
- A strong understanding of inclusive teaching practices
Some SEN teachers later choose to complete specialist training or SEN-focused CPD, but many move into SEN roles directly from mainstream teaching.
Can You Move from Mainstream to SEN Without Prior Experience?
Yes — many professionals successfully make the transition.
Schools and specialist provisions often value mindset, attitude and transferable skills just as much as direct SEN experience. A background in teaching jobs or classroom support demonstrates:
- Understanding of safeguarding
- Experience working with children
- Ability to follow structured learning plans
- Confidence in educational environments
With the right guidance, moving into SEN can be a natural progression rather than a complete career change.
How Service Care Solutions Supports Your Move into SEN
At Service Care Solutions, we work with education professionals at all stages of their careers — from mainstream teachers exploring SEN roles to experienced SEN specialists seeking their next opportunity.
Our education consultants take time to understand:
- Your experience and strengths
- The type of setting you’re interested in
- Your long-term career goals
- Whether you’re looking for temporary, long-term or permanent SEN jobs
We focus on matching you with the right environment — not just the next vacancy.
Is SEN Education Right for You?
If you enjoy building relationships, adapting your approach and making a meaningful impact on individual learners, SEN education could be a highly rewarding step in your career.
Equally, mainstream education remains a vital and fulfilling path for many professionals. The key is finding the setting that aligns best with your skills, values and career goals.
If you’re exploring teaching jobs, SEN teacher roles or teaching assistant opportunities, our team is here to offer honest advice and tailored support.