SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) Careers with Cover People

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Supporting Students. Transforming Futures. Building Inclusive Classrooms.

At Cover People, we specialise in placing passionate, skilled professionals into SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) roles across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire and Derbyshire. If you are looking to build a rewarding career supporting children with additional needs, this is one of the most impactful pathways in education.

Whether you are an experienced SEND teacher, a SEN Teaching Assistant, or someone who wants to transition into a SEND or SEMH environment, we offer a variety of opportunities in:

• SEND schools

• Mainstream schools with SEND provisions

• PRUs (Pupil Referral Units)

• Alternative Provisions

• SEMH settings

• Autism Resource Bases

• Specialist support centres

SEND roles are in high demand — and the impact you can make is truly life-changing.

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Why Choose a Career in SEND?

SEND roles offer the chance to support children who need extra help with their learning, communication, behaviour, emotional well-being, or physical needs. These roles allow you to:

• Improve children’s confidence and independence

• Build strong, meaningful relationships with students

• Support personalised learning strategies

• Work closely with teachers, therapists and multi-agency teams

• Shape an inclusive learning environment where all pupils can thrive

SEND is a specialist pathway with excellent career growth, making it ideal for those who are patient, resilient, empathetic and motivated to make a real difference.

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SEND Roles We Recruit For

We support schools in hiring a range of SEND professionals, including:

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SEND Teachers

Specialist teachers who deliver personalised learning for children with autism, learning difficulties, physical disabilities, SEMH needs and more.

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SEN Teaching Assistants (SEN TA)

Supporting pupils 1:1 or in small groups with learning, communication, sensory or behavioural needs.

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Learning Support Assistants (LSA)

Helping students access the curriculum, develop independence, and overcome learning barriers.

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SEMH Support Staff

Working with pupils who experience emotional or behavioural challenges, offering stability, structure, and encouragement.

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Behaviour Mentors / Behaviour Support Assistants

Supporting behaviour regulation, de-escalation, positive interventions and emotional well-being.

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Autism Support Specialists

Providing structured support for children with autism or social communication difficulties.

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Pastoral Support Roles

Focusing on emotional well-being, attendance, engagement and positive relationships.

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What Makes a Great SEND Professional?

SEND settings are unique, and we look for individuals who have:

✔ Patience & empathy

Understanding the individual needs of each child.

✔ Strong communication skills

Especially important for pupils who use alternative communication strategies.

✔ Behaviour management confidence

Knowing how to remain calm under pressure and use positive de-escalation strategies.

✔ Adaptability

No two days are the same — flexibility is key.

✔ Teamwork

SEND support is collaborative, involving teachers, therapists, parents and external agencies.

✔ A genuine passion for helping children succeed

The biggest factor of all.

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Why Work in SEND Through Cover People?

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✔ Exclusive SEND job opportunities

We partner with SEND schools, provisions and PRUs across the North West, providing access to roles rarely advertised elsewhere.

✔ Specialist consultant support

Our team understands the complexities of SEND recruitment and will guide you through each step — matching your strengths to the right environment.

✔ Flexible work options

Choose from long-term placements, permanent SEND jobs, or supply work that fits your schedule.

✔ Ongoing professional development

We support you with guidance, resources and tips to help you grow in your SEND career.

✔ A pathway into teaching or behaviour roles

SEND experience is highly valued across all education settings and opens doors to roles in:

• Teaching

• Behaviour support

• Pastoral teams

• Therapy-based careers

• Leadership roles within SEND

Who Can Apply for SEND Roles?

SEND roles are perfect for:

• Experienced SEN Teachers or TAs

• General TAs wanting to move into SEND

• Care workers transitioning to education

• Psychology, Social Work, Criminology or Health graduates

• Mentors and Pastoral staff

• Youth workers and sports coaches

• Behaviour support professionals

• Anyone passionate about helping pupils with additional needs

You don’t need prior SEND experience for all roles — just the right mindset, willingness to learn, and a commitment to supporting vulnerable pupils.