We're looking for special education teachers to join UK schools

 

Are you ready to take your teaching career further? The UK is calling for passionate SEND/ALN (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities / Additional Learning Needs) educators who want to make a real difference in the lives of young people. By moving to the UK, you’ll have the chance to work in diverse schools, gain valuable international experience, and develop specialist skills that will benefit your career wherever it takes you.

At TeacherActive, we make your transition simple and supportive. From helping with relocation to matching you with schools that fit your experience, we’re here to guide you at every step. Whether you’re looking for flexible supply work to balance with travel, or long-term roles where you can fully immerse yourself in the UK education system, we’ll find the right fit for you.

Join us to grow your career, explore life in the UK, and become part of a welcoming community of international educators.
 

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Why teach special education in the UK?

 

SEND/ALN (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities / Additional Learning Needs) teaching is a rewarding career path that makes a lasting impact on young people’s lives. By moving to the UK with TeacherActive, you’ll benefit from:

  • Varied roles – work 1:1, in small groups, or within classroom settings across mainstream and specialist schools.
  • Valuable international experience – the UK curriculum is recognised worldwide, giving your CV a strong global edge.
  • Professional development – gain new skills in SEND/ALN strategies, behaviour management and inclusive teaching.
  • Adventure alongside your career – travel Europe during term breaks, explore UK culture and build lifelong connections

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Why choose TeacherActive?

 

Since 2004, we’ve been helping teachers find fulfilling roles in schools across England and Wales. Our international team specialises in supporting overseas educators as they relocate. You’ll also have access to our International Resources section, packed with practical guides on relocation, visas, and life in the UK - everything you need to feel confident before and after your move. When you join us, you can expect:

  • Free flights to the UK*
  • Guaranteed pay schemes and top daily rates
  • Relocation guidance tailored to your needs
  • Free CPD through our My-Progression platform
  • Termly social events to help you meet other international teachers
  • A network of over 3,000 schools and 16 UK branches
 

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Where you could be placed

 

Every special education role is different, and the setting you work in will shape your day-to-day experience. We work with a wide range of schools and specialist provisions across the UK, so you can find the right fit for your skills, interests and goals.

We place special education educators in all kinds of settings, including:

  • Specialist schools (for complex learning needs, sensory impairment, autism and more)

  • Resource bases or inclusion units attached to mainstream schools

  • Alternative provision and behaviour support units

  • Residential or day special schools

  • Mainstream classrooms with inclusion and 1:1 support

Your journey to teaching in the UK

We’ll guide you every step of the way - starting well before your plane takes off. Around twelve months before your move, it’s a good idea to get in touch with TeacherActive, start exploring your visa options, and considering where in England or Wales you'd like to be based. 

At the six-month mark, it’s time to confirm your interest in relocating to the UK. We’ll help you understand if you’re eligible to apply for Qualified Teacher Status and get you started on your paperwork.

With three months to go, things really get exciting. You’ll begin looking for housing, book your flights, and complete your registration with us. You'll also have access to free CPD via our My-Progression platform.

Once you arrive in the UK, we’ll meet you in person to finalise your registration. From there, you can open a UK bank account, get a local mobile number, and start preparing for your first day in the classroom. View our "Working in the UK" page to find out more.
 

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Ongoing support in the UK

 

Relocating is a big step, but you won’t do it alone. Your consultant will stay in touch to ensure you feel supported, whether that’s guidance on UK classroom expectations, help with paperwork, or simply connecting you to other international teachers at our events.

You’ll also have free access to My-Progression, our online CPD platform, where you can learn about:

  • The UK curriculum
  • Behaviour management
  • Lesson planning
  • SEND/ALN teaching strategies

Certificates are available to boost your CV and support your professional development.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

I’m ready to move – what are my next steps?

Brilliant! Here's your plan:

  • Get in touch with our International Team

  • Share your CV and qualifications

  • Chat with a consultant via video or WhatsApp

  • Receive role recommendations and start the interview process

  • Plan your relocation—we’ll help you every step of the way

  • Complete onboarding and CPD

  • Arrive in the UK and begin teaching!

Let’s start this journey together—email [email protected] or message us on WhatsApp at +44 7960 269 080.

What’s it really like to teach in the UK?

Teaching in the UK is dynamic and varied, with opportunities to work across different school types. The curriculum will feel familiar, but classroom management and formal assessment can take some adjustment. With our training and consultant support, you'll adapt quickly. Many international teachers thrive here—building skills, confidence, and lasting connections.

How do I find somewhere to live?

Most candidates choose to rent a flat share or studio apartment near their school placement or preferred city. We'll offer tips on trusted letting agents and popular areas for international teachers. Some teachers opt for short-term stays first (e.g. Airbnb) before choosing something longer term. Cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Cardiff are all popular with newcomers.

What licence do I need to teach in the UK?

You may not need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) immediately, depending on the role and your visa. However, many overseas qualifications are eligible to be converted to QTS. If you’re a fully qualified teacher registered with your local teaching council, your teaching degree likely qualifies. Our team can guide you through the application process for QTS if needed.

Can you help me get a sponsorship visa?

We don’t directly offer visa sponsorship, but we’re here to help you understand your options.
While TeacherActive doesn’t provide sponsorship ourselves, there are many visa routes our international educators can access, like the Youth Mobility Scheme, to allow them to live and work here legally.

We can advise you on what visas are available and what schools typically look for. Once you have the right to work in the UK, we can help you find the perfect teaching or support opportunity and guide you throughout the relocation process.

Need help figuring out which visa might be right for you? Just let us know where you're from and your teaching background—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Can you guarantee me a job before I arrive?

While we can’t guarantee a role before you land, our consultants work closely with schools to match your skills to suitable positions and will do their best to secure interviews or tentative offers ahead of your move. Our guaranteed pay scheme will give added peace of mind while our consultants secure you a role once you're here.

Who do you recruit?

At TeacherActive, we support education professionals from around the world in finding their ideal role in UK schools. Whether you're a qualified teacher, experienced educator, early career teacher, or teaching assistant, we want to hear from you.

We work with passionate individuals from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, Ireland, and beyond - helping them take the next step in their careers. From Overseas Trained Teachers (OTTs) and SEND specialists to those exploring their first opportunity abroad, we place educators across all school phases and settings, including primary, secondary, early years, special education, and alternative provisions.

Why TeacherActive International?

At TeacherActive, we’ve supported educators since 2004 - and since 2018, our International Team has specialised in helping overseas teachers thrive in UK schools. With us, you’ll receive personalised guidance from consultants who’ve made the move themselves, access to free CPD, a guaranteed pay scheme, relocation support, and the backing of a 3,000+ school network. We’re here to make your UK adventure a smooth and successful one.