Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools are unique learning environments designed to meet the needs of pupils who require additional support.
But it’s not just about teachers — SEN schools rely on a collaborative team of professionals working together to support each child’s development, wellbeing, and learning.
At Heart Teaching, we work with a wide range of roles in SEN schools. Here’s a breakdown of the key teams you can expect to find and how they contribute to a child’s success.
🧑🏫 Teaching Staff
At the core of every SEN school is a team of skilled SEN Teachers who:
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Plan personalised learning activities
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Use adaptive teaching methods and specialist tools
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Work closely with support staff to deliver individualised education
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Monitor progress and update education plans (EHCPs)
Many SEN teachers have additional qualifications in areas like autism, SEMH, or complex needs.
👩💼 Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
The SLT typically includes the Headteacher, Deputy Head, SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), and sometimes Pastoral Leads.
Their responsibilities include:
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Overseeing whole-school strategy
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Ensuring compliance with SEND legislation
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Supporting staff training and pupil wellbeing
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Liaising with local authorities and families
👩🏫 Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
TAs and LSAs are essential in providing day-to-day support for pupils.
They may:
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Support 1:1 learning or small group work
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Help manage behaviour and emotional regulation
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Provide personal care (toileting, feeding, etc.)
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Use communication aids or sensory tools
Many have specific training in autism, PECS, Makaton, or de-escalation strategies.
🩺 Therapeutic Support Team
Many SEN schools have access to in-house or visiting specialists, including:
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Speech & Language Therapists (SLTs)
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Occupational Therapists (OTs)
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Physiotherapists
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Mental Health Practitioners or Counsellors
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Play Therapists or Art Therapists
These professionals help pupils develop communication, mobility, self-regulation, and emotional resilience.
🛡️ Pastoral and Behaviour Support Teams
These teams focus on pupils’ emotional wellbeing and behaviour.
Roles may include:
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Pastoral Officers or Family Support Workers
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Behaviour Mentors or SEMH Support Workers
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Staff trained in restorative practices, emotion coaching, and protective behaviours
They often build trusted relationships with students and are crucial in maintaining a safe, nurturing environment.
👨⚕️ Medical and Personal Care Team
For pupils with medical or physical needs, schools may have:
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School Nurses or Healthcare Assistants
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Manual handling-trained staff
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Trained First Aiders
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Specialist equipment support teams
They ensure pupils receive the care they need while promoting as much independence as possible.
🧑💻 Admin and Support Services
Behind the scenes, admin staff keep the school running smoothly. They:
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Schedule reviews and meetings
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Maintain EHCP documentation
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Liaise with external agencies and transport teams
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Support communication between home and school
They’re often the first point of contact for families.
Final Thoughts
SEN schools are built on teamwork. From therapists and TAs to leaders and support staff, each role is essential in helping pupils reach their full potential.
At Heart Teaching, we’re proud to work with every part of this ecosystem — supporting the people who support the children.
