13 Common SEN Interview Questions - And How to Answer Them

In this blog, you will learn

• What a SEN professional is
• The 13 most common questions asked at SEN interviews
• Why hiring managers are asking these questions
• How to answer these 13 questions
• The latest SEN jobs are how to apply for them

What is a SEN professional?

A SEN (Special Educational Needs) professional specialises in supporting and advocating for students with special educational needs. They work in various educational settings, including schools, colleges, and special educational needs centres.

SEN professionals collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to assess students' needs, develop individualised education plans (IEPs), and provide appropriate interventions and accommodations. 

They may also provide direct support to students, such as delivering specialised instruction, addressing behavioural challenges, or facilitating social skills development. SEN professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that students with special needs receive the necessary support and opportunities to thrive academically and socially.

What are the most common SEN interview questions?

The 13 most common questions which you could be asked at a SEN interview are:

• Can you tell us about your experience working with students with special educational needs?
• How do you differentiate instruction to accommodate students with various learning abilities?
• How do you establish effective communication with parents or guardians of students with SEN?
• How do you handle challenging behaviours exhibited by students with special needs?
• What strategies do you use to promote inclusion and social interaction among students with and without special needs?
• How do you assess and monitor progress for students with SEN?
• How do you collaborate with other professionals to support students with special needs?
• Can you describe your experience in creating and implementing individualised education plans (IEPs)?
• How do you promote a positive and inclusive learning environment for students with SEN?
• How do you stay up-to-date with current research and best practices in special education?
• Can you share an example of a challenging situation you faced while working with a student with special needs and how you resolved it?
• How do you ensure that students with SEN are included in mainstream classroom activities?
• How do you advocate for students with special needs within the school community?

Can you tell us about your experience working with students with special educational needs?

A hiring manager may ask about your experience working with students with special educational needs during an interview to assess your suitability for a position that involves supporting students with diverse learning needs. 

By asking this question, the hiring manager aims to gauge your level of expertise, understanding, and practical experience in working with students who require additional support.

How to answer this question

Highlight any relevant experience you have, such as previous roles, training, or specific cases where you supported students with SEN. Emphasise your understanding of individualised education plans and your ability to adapt teaching strategies to meet diverse needs.

How do you differentiate instruction to accommodate students with various learning abilities?

You may get asked this so the company can assess your ability to tailor your teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students. They want to evaluate your understanding of differentiation, your commitment to inclusive education, and your capacity to create personalised learning experiences that support the success of all students.

How to answer this question

Explain how you assess students' needs, design individualised learning goals, and modify teaching methods to suit different learning styles. Mention the use of visual aids, multisensory activities, assistive technology, and collaboration with support staff.

How do you establish effective communication with parents or guardians of students with SEN?

You may be asked this question in the interview to evaluate your ability to establish open and collaborative lines of communication with parents. The hiring manager wants to assess your skills in actively listening, providing regular updates on student progress, addressing parental concerns, and involving parents in the decision-making process. 

They want to ensure that you can build strong partnerships with parents or guardians to support the holistic development of students with special educational needs.

How to answer this question

Describe your approach to regular communication, such as progress reports, parent-teacher meetings, and open-door policies. Emphasise the importance of building a partnership with parents, listening to their concerns, and involving them in decision-making processes.

How do you handle challenging behaviours exhibited by students with special needs?

If you get asked this question, the hiring manager aims to evaluate your skills in behaviour management, your ability to create a positive and inclusive classroom culture, and your commitment to meeting the individual needs of students with special needs.

How to answer this question

Discuss your approach to behaviour management, which may include positive reinforcement, clear expectations, consistent routines, and the implementation of behaviour support plans. Emphasise the importance of addressing the underlying causes of behaviour and promoting a positive learning environment.

What strategies do you use to promote inclusion and social interaction among students with and without special needs?

By asking this question, the hiring manager aims to assess your commitment to inclusion, your ability to create opportunities for social interaction, and your strategies for promoting positive peer relationships among students with and without special needs.

How to answer this question

Talk about creating a supportive classroom environment, promoting peer relationships, and organising exciting activities for children with special needs, that encourage collaboration and teamwork. Highlight your efforts to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance among all students.

How do you assess and monitor progress for students with SEN?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your understanding of effective assessment practices, your proficiency in using appropriate assessment tools and methods, and your dedication to using data-driven insights to guide instructional decisions and facilitate the growth and development of students with special educational needs.

How to answer this question

Explain how you use a variety of assessment methods, including formative and summative assessments, observations, and ongoing evaluations. Mention your experience in using progress monitoring tools and collaborating with other professionals to ensure accurate assessment.

How do you collaborate with other professionals to support students with special needs?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your ability to effectively collaborate with other professionals, such as Speech Therapists or Occupational Therapists, to discover your teamwork and communication skills. 

They want to evaluate your understanding of the roles and contributions of different specialists and gauge your commitment to providing integrated and comprehensive support for students with special educational needs.

How to answer this question

Discuss your experience working in a multidisciplinary team, your understanding of the roles of different professionals, and how you effectively communicate and share information to ensure coordinated support for students.

Can you describe your experience in creating and implementing individualised education plans (IEPs)?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your experience and expertise in developing and implementing individualised education plans (IEPs). They are interested in evaluating your ability to collaborate effectively with parents and professionals, as well as your dedication to creating personalised educational plans that foster the growth and success of students with special needs.

How to answer this question

Highlight your understanding of the IEP process, including assessment, goal-setting, and progress monitoring. Discuss your experience in creating specific and measurable goals, as well as your ability to collaborate with parents, support staff, and other professionals.

How do you promote a positive and inclusive learning environment for students with SEN?

The hiring manager asks this question to evaluate your approach to fostering an inclusive learning environment, your adaptability in tailoring instruction to meet diverse needs, and your commitment to nurturing a positive and supportive atmosphere that allows students with special educational needs to thrive and reach their full potential.

How to answer this question

Talk about your strategies for creating a safe and welcoming classroom atmosphere, such as fostering positive relationships, promoting empathy and understanding, and addressing bullying or exclusionary behaviours. Highlight any specific initiatives or activities you have implemented.

How do you stay up-to-date with current research and best practices in special education?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your commitment to continuous learning, your proactive approach in keeping up with current research and best practices, and your ability to apply this knowledge to improve your teaching and provide effective support for students with special educational needs.

How to answer this question

Discuss your commitment to ongoing professional development, such as attending workshops, conferences, or online courses. Mention your involvement in professional networks or communities where you exchange knowledge and resources with other educators.

Can you share an example of a challenging situation you faced while working with a student with special needs and how you resolved it?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your experience in handling challenging situations while working with students with special needs. They want to evaluate your ability to think quickly, problem-solve effectively, and find appropriate solutions that promote the well-being and academic progress of students with special educational needs.

How to answer this question

Select a situation where you encountered a significant challenge, such as addressing a student's behavioural issue or adapting curriculum for a student with complex needs. Describe the specific steps you took to understand the problem, involve relevant stakeholders, and implement a solution.

How do you ensure that students with SEN are included in mainstream classroom activities?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your inclusive practices, your skill in creating an accessible and supportive learning environment, and your dedication to ensuring maximum participation and positive learning outcomes for students with special educational needs within mainstream classrooms.

How to answer this question

Explain how you adapt curriculum materials, modify activities, and provide additional support to ensure that students with SEN can actively participate in classroom lessons and social interactions. Mention your collaboration with teaching assistants or support staff, as well as your efforts to promote acceptance among peers.

How do you advocate for students with special needs within the school community?

The hiring manager asks this question to assess your advocacy skills, your proficiency in effective communication and partnership-building, and your dedication to ensuring that students with special needs receive the essential support and opportunities they need to thrive within the school community.

How to answer this question

Talk about your role as an advocate, such as attending meetings or sharing information about the needs and rights of students with SEN. Highlight instances where you have collaborated with administrators, parents, or external organisations to secure appropriate resources and support for students.

Discover the latest SEN jobs

Are you searching for your next SEN job? Discover the extensive array of available vacancies we have to offer. If you haven't found what you're looking for, upload your CV or contact our SEN specialist, Richard Shorrock, who can provide you with additional details regarding the thrilling opportunities awaiting you!

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Our recruitment agency, situated in the vibrant North West region, is dedicated to serving the needs of both the public and private sectors. With our driven and ambitious team, we constantly seek innovative solutions to connect exceptional individuals, like you, with their perfect job opportunities. 

Embrace a forward-thinking approach to advancing your career and embark on your journey towards your dream role by submitting your CV today. Let us guide you through this crucial first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding professional path!