You can do a college qualification to help you get started, for example:
- Level 2 and 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools
- Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education Early Years Educator
- T level in Education and childcare
You may be able to get a placement working with children with special educational needs while doing your course.
Many people get qualifications or experience working with children in mainstream schools, then move into working with children with special educational needs.
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level