SEND
Jump to main content
Search
shortlist register contact us menu

Overcoming SEND staffing challenges in schools

Date posted : 02 July 2025

In December 2024, the government announced new specialist places in mainstream schools to better support pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Yet, staff shortages limit schools' ability to deliver inclusive education. 

The ongoing lack of teaching assistants (TAs), SEN specialists, and teachers, places extra pressure on schools. With more pupils needing support, the demand for trained SEND educators has never been greater.  Addressing SEND staffing challenges requires a strategic approach. An approach that combines targeted recruitment, professional development, and workplace support to ensure every pupil receives the help they need. 

 

Upskilling existing staff in SEND 
A Teacher Tapp survey found that almost a third (31%) of teachers admitted they couldn’t provide enough support to SEN pupils. Yet, 88% of primary teachers want more help in this area. More TA support was the most requested among these teachers. Investing in SEND-specific training for teaching assistants and mainstream teachers can build internal expertise. This reduces reliance on external specialists and creates clear career progression paths for existing staff.  

 

Flexible staffing models 
Schools can adopt creative staffing solutions, such as hybrid roles where teaching assistants with SEND expertise support multiple classes or rotating systems to ensure targeted support during key learning periods. Some schools have SEND specialist teaching hubs, where staff can be deployed flexibly based on need. This ensures that resources are used effectively across different year groups and subjects. Specialist SEN tutors and TAs can help pupils and support teachers. Bringing in trained professionals ensures pupils receive tailored interventions while reducing teacher workload. 

 

Using technology 
Intuitive technology and blended learning solutions can alleviate administrative burdens and enable teachers to focus on impactful teaching. Digital tools, such as Thrive Online, can support educators in tracking pupils' progress, implementing targeted interventions, and managing workloads. 

 

Government and policy support 
Increased funding, such as the £2.3 billion allocated for 2025-26, is crucial for addressing systemic issues. Schools can also use the Pupil Premium to support disadvantaged pupils with SEND, ensuring that funding goes toward tailored interventions. This could include: 

one-on-one teaching assistants, therapeutic services, or access to specialist equipment.  

The most beneficial pupil premium spending decisions are based on understanding eligible pupil challenges 

 

Recruitment of SEND educators 

Partnering with a specialist recruitment agency like Teaching Personnel can help schools address SEND staffing challenges. Schools benefit from:   

  • a streamlined hiring process 

  • rigorous vetting procedures 
  • ongoing professional development opportunities 

This ensures they secure the best talent to support their pupils. With a database of over 30,000 SEND educators, Teaching Personnel provides access to trained professionals who understand the complexities of SEND teaching.  

Benefits of working with Teaching Personnel: 

  • Access to a large network of SEND specialists – Over 30,000 trained educators available to match school needs. 

  • Expert matching process - Candidates are selected based on experience, skills, and school requirements. 
  • Ongoing professional development – Access to CPD training in autism, behavioural support, and other SEND areas. 
  • Flexible staffing solutions – Support for short-term cover, long-term placements, and permanent hires. 
  • Compliance and safeguarding assurance – Thorough vetting processes, including enhanced DBS checks and employment history verification. 

Improving teacher retention in SEND  

Retaining skilled SEND educators is as important as recruiting them. High turnover rates disrupt pupils’ learning and increase the workload for remaining staff.  

 

Strategies for improving teacher retention  

Encouraging peer mentorship and structured professional development pathways can enhance job satisfaction and staff retention, reducing turnover in key SEND roles. Competitive pay, clear career progression, and access to support help retain dedicated SEND staff. 

 

Ongoing training and career progression  

CPD opportunities can help staff develop new skills and advance their careers. Structured training can create clear career progression paths for teaching assistants and other school staffUpskilling existing staff through SEND-specific training can build internal expertise and reduce reliance on external specialistsThrough Teaching Personnel’s CPD Academy, educators can access ongoing training to develop their knowledge in autism, speech and language difficulties, and behavioural support. This ensures more teachers can meet pupils' needs. 


Whether you're struggling to find specialist SEND educators, need flexible staffing solutions, or want to upskill your existing team, Teaching Personnel can help. With over 30,000 trained professionals and access to CPD-accredited training, we’ll match your school with the right support, quickly and confidently.


Need practical advice on inclusive education, CPD, recruitment, and SEND reform? Our free e-book, Supporting SEND Success, gives you expert insights, real-world strategies, and step-by-step guidance to strengthen your SEND provision.

List #1

Related posts

Bridging the gap: Why SEND CPD matters for teachers

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

Recent statistics highlight gaps in SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) training and support for educators. The government wants more SEND pupils in mainstream schools. At the same t

Teaser

Are your staff prepared for the rising SEND needs in mainstream schools? Diagnoses are rising, but most teachers feel unprepared. Discover why high-quality SEND CPD is essential and how your school can upskill effectively without breaking the budget.

Read more
Pupils listening to teacher in classroom
Creating inclusive classrooms: strategies for success

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

In 2024, the National Audit Office (NAO) highlighted the crisis in the SEND system, noting limited progress in making mainstream schools more inclusive. Without further investment and changes, t

Teaser

With the number of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rising, schools must take proactive steps to create inclusive learning environments. The National Audit Office (NAO) has highlighted the challenges in making mainstream schools more accessible, emphasising the urgent need for change. But while systemic improvements are necessary, educators can implement practical strategies today to support SEND pupils effectively.

Read more
How to navigate SEND funding for 2025-26

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

 How to navigate SEND funding for 2025-26    As government funding for special education needs and disabilities (SEND) evolves, schools face critical challenges securing essential resources. Sch

Teaser

Struggling to make sense of SEND funding for 2025–26? Get clarity and strategy in our free SEND Funding Guide, packed with insights schools can use now.

Read more
SEND reform 2025: Delays, funding, and what schools need to know

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

Unpacking SEND reform: Where are we now and what’s coming next? A rapid rise in pupils diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder, social, emotional, and mental health needs (including ADHD), as

Teaser

New reforms mean new responsibilities. Find out how to support your team with training, compliance, and smart SEND planning in our free guide.

Read more
What do schools need to know this term?

Teaser

Education News

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD05YY

Summary

What do schools need to know this term? Change is constant in the education sector, and this term is no different. From Ofsted and pay reviews, to structural shifts like RISE and curriculum refo

Teaser

Change is constant in the education sector, and this term is no different. From Ofsted and pay reviews, to structural shifts like RISE and curriculum reform, school leaders face a challenging time. Here’s what’s currently happening across the sector.

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Invigilator seeing over exams
Understanding the value of outsourced invigilators through Teaching Personnel

Teaser

Tips and Advice

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

The True Worth of Professional Exam Invigilation When schools and colleges across England and Wales prepare for examination periods, the pressure to maintain JCQ compliance while ensuring fair ass

Teaser

Examination periods bring immense pressure to maintain compliance and ensure fair assessments. Discover how Teaching Personnel’s highly trained, JCQ-accredited invigilators provide schools and colleges across England and Wales with seamless, professional invigilation services—ensuring integrity, safeguarding, and expert support when it matters most.

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Easter Payroll Dates 2025

Teaser

Educators

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

With the Easter break and end of term coming up, it’s time to get your payroll sorted! Our Payroll team has outlined the key dates you need to ensure you receive your pay on time. Check out the ta

Teaser

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

The evolving landscape of SEND in the UK

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

The landscape of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is transforming. The number of pupils in the UK with special educational needs (SEN) has increased over the last five years. Toda

Teaser

Read more
Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

Spring into a New Teaching Career: Embrace Supply Teaching this February

Teaser

Educators

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD02YY

Summary

As Spring approaches, it's a critical date for many teachers in the UK who may be contemplating their professional future ahead of the February 28th resignation deadline. While teaching remains on

Teaser

Read more
Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

How can teaching assistants help engage students in the classroom?

Teaser

Educators

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD02YY

Summary

Teaching assistants support teachers and students in the classroom. The role is invaluable and continues to grow in importance as school environments become larger and more diverse. In fact, teach

Teaser

Teaching assistants are currently in high demand, and many schools can’t cope without them.

Read more
West Yorkshire Primary

by

West Yorkshire Primary

West Yorkshire Primary

by

West Yorkshire Primary

company logo
Search