Special Education Teachers, Primary School
Overview
Special Education Teachers work with primary school students who have learning, emotional, or physical disabilities, helping them develop academic, social, and life skills. They often specialise in areas such as visual impairments, hearing impairments, or intellectual disabilities, ensuring each child receives the support they need to succeed.
Did you know?
To become a Special Education Teacher, you'll need to complete a Bachelor of Education with a specialisation in special education, or a teaching degree followed by additional qualifications in special education. Registration with the relevant state teaching authority is also required.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$82,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Systems Evaluation
Key Responsibilities
- Assess students' abilities and limitations
- Plans, organises and implements special programmes to provide remedial or advanced tuition
- Administers various forms of assessment and interprets the results
- Teaches basic academic subjects as well as practical and self-help skills to children with special needs (e.g. distance learners or migrant students)
- Devises instructional materials, methods and aids to assist in training and rehabilitation
- Advises, instructs and counsels parents and teachers on the availability and use of special techniques
- Stimulates and develops interests, abilities, manual skills and co-ordination
- Confers with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons for special needs students
- Prepares and maintains student data and other records and submits reports
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements in Australia
To become a Special Education Teacher, you'll need to complete a Bachelor of Education with a specialisation in special education, or a teaching degree followed by additional qualifications in special education. Registration with the relevant state teaching authority is also required.
Essential Personal Qualities
This role requires patience, empathy, creativity, and strong communication skills. You'll need to be adaptable and able to develop innovative teaching strategies to meet diverse learning needs while maintaining a positive and encouraging classroom environment.
Career Opportunities and Work Environment
Special Education Teachers can work in mainstream schools, special schools, or specialised units. There are opportunities for career advancement into leadership roles, curriculum development, or specialised therapy support positions within the education system.