Special and inclusive education teacher
What does a special and inclusive education teacher do?
A special and inclusive education teacher (also known as a special needs teacher) helps students with learning difficulties or impairments to reach their full potential. As the needs of each student can vary, these teachers will often create individualised education plans (IEPs) to help their students reach personal goals. Working in special and inclusive education, you will help students to build on their academic, social, emotional and life skills. You would work closely with parents and carers to ensure your students receive the support they need in the classroom and at home.
Special and inclusive education teacher jobs can be found in both primary and high schools, as well as specialist institutions for people with disabilities.
Is a career as a special and inclusive education teacher right for me?
If you’re a very caring person with a passion for education, you might enjoy a career in education, specifically special and inclusive education.
Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
Creative expression, storytelling and original thinking.
How to become a special and inclusive education teacher?
Becoming a special and inclusive education teacher involves developing your teaching skills alongside specialist knowledge in supporting students with diverse learning needs. You’ll need an accredited teaching qualification and teacher registration, while further study can help you build expertise in special and inclusive education.
Here is one path you could take:
- Complete an accredited teaching degree or other recognised initial teacher education qualification.
- Gain practical teaching experience through supervised professional placements.
- Meet any necessary teacher registration requirements.
- Develop specialist knowledge in special and inclusive education through further study or professional experience.
- Continue building your skills in inclusive teaching practices and supporting students with diverse learning needs.
Accreditation and qualifications
To work as a special and inclusive education teacher, you will first need to complete an accredited teaching degree and meet the registration requirements of the relevant state or territory teaching authority.
How long does it typically take to become a special and inclusive education teacher?
The time it takes to go down a special education teacher career path can vary depending on factors such as your educational background, training requirements, and employment opportunities.
There are multiple study options for you to take at UniSQ to become a special education teacher and to complement your learning. If you're not already a registered teacher, UniSQ offers both bachelor and masters degrees to get you there, such as a four-year Bachelor of Education or a two-year Master of Learning and Teaching.
If you are already a registered teacher who wants to specialise in inclusive and special needs education, a Graduate Certificate of Education Studies typically takes half a year to complete, a Graduate Diploma of Education will take you one year to finish the required courses, and a Master of Education will take 1.5 years full-time. For those who choose to study part-time, the duration to complete the required coursework will be extended.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a rewarding career as a special and inclusive education teacher with a UniSQ education degree and develop the teaching, communication and student support skills sought by employers across schools, education services and community settings.
Responsibilities and work settings
Assessing students' learning needs, abilities, strengths and challenges to inform teaching and support strategies.
Developing, adapting and implementing individualised learning plans, programs and resources to meet diverse educational needs.
Teaching academic, practical and self-help skills, supporting students' educational, social, emotional and personal development.
Creating inclusive learning environments that promote participation, independence and student success.
Developing instructional materials, methods and learning aids to support learning, training and rehabilitation goals.
Collaborating with families, carers, teachers and other professionals to provide coordinated support and improve student outcomes.
Early learning and childcare providers
Primary and secondary schools
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Universities and higher education providers
Special and inclusive education teacher FAQs
Being a special and inclusive education teacher can be both highly challenging and highly rewarding.
The role involves supporting students with diverse learning and support needs, adapting teaching approaches, and helping every student succeed in the classroom. While the job can be demanding, many teachers find it deeply fulfilling because they make a meaningful difference in students' lives, helping them build confidence, develop skills, and achieve their goals.
Stay in touch
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