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Special Education FAQs
Here is a selection of frequently asked questions about Special Education. Please click on the question to view the answer. If in doubt, please contact Protocol Education SEN.
What is the difference between British Sign language (BSL) and Makaton?
Will my personal experience of SEN be helpful in securing me placements?
What experience do I need to work as an SEN Teacher/ TA?
I am new to teaching and would like to gain some classroom experience. How can I do this?
As a Teaching assistant I am worried that I will be expected to carry out tasks I am not comfortable with?
What is PECS?
PECS stands for 'Picture Exchange Communication System' and you can read about it in What is Special Education?
What is the difference between British Sign language (BSL) and Makaton?
British Sign Language is an actual language that is used for members of the deaf community. Makaton is a communication aid that is based upon BSL and is combined with speech, physical actions, facial expressions and eye contact to aid learners who struggle with regular communication techniques.
Will my personal experience of SEN be helpful in securing me placements?
We have many candidates who have SEN experience due to a close friend or relative having a condition. We believe that this experience coupled with the willingness to work in an SEN environment is invaluable. If you would like to discuss SEN opportunities in London and throughout the UK please call our SEN team on 0207 440 8448 or send your CV to SEN@protocol-education.com
If I am unaware of recent developments (am unsure of any SEN terminology) in SEN - where can I get more information from?
All Protocol Education consultants have SEN experience and like to keep their skills topped up by visiting our schools regularly, staying on top of new ideas or provisions being offered.
We keep a handy factfile in our SEN branches so that we can forward on information to you if a quick refresher is necessary.
You could also attend one of our regular SEN training sessions, many of which are free if you are registered with Protocol Education.
What experience do I need to work as an SEN Teacher/ TA?
We would ideally like you to have had 12 weeks worth of classroom experience prior to us placing you in a role. This experience can be from working in SEN schools, PRUs or within a mainstream school with students with varying needs.
Whilst this type of experience is valuable we are also happy to hear from people who have any personal experience of SEN and/or a willingness to work in an SEN environment.
Protocol Education also offers training for anyone interested in starting work in SEN: see our SEN Training Page.
I am new to teaching and would like to gain some classroom experience. How can I do this?
We have a lot of overseas trained teachers, NQTs and candidates wishing to make the transition to move from primary to secondary who approach us for support roles rather than teaching. Whatever your personal circumstances let your consultant know and they can match your skills to the schools they work with.
Register with Protocol Education or Contact Your Local Branch
As a Teaching assistant I am worried that I will be expected to carry out tasks I am not comfortable with?
Your consultant will always highlight the needs of the school you will be going into and will assess how confidently you will perform a task. We know the demands of our schools and aim to make your placement as enjoyable and carefree as possible by communicating effectively with both the school and you effectively. This guide may help you: What to Expect from SEN.
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