Teacher - Special Education (VIC)

Education and Training:

To become a special education teacher you usually have to study education at university, specialising in special education. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your VCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in education with a specialisation in special education. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Alternatively, you can undertake a graduate diploma of education, specialising in special education, after completing a degree in teaching or other relevant areas such as arts, social work or disability studies. Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires a relevant bachelor degree as well as teaching experience or experience working with people with special needs.

Additional Information:

Teachers in all Victorian government, Catholic and independent schools need to be registered by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT). For more information visit the VIT website at www.vit.vic.edu.au.

Practical placements are usually required in education courses. Prior to undertaking practical placements in schools in Victoria, you must obtain a Working with Children Check issued by the Department of Justice.

Teachers are required by mandatory reporting laws to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Bachelor of Education / Bachelor of Applied Science - Disability

Employment Opportunities:

Special education teachers are employed by government, Catholic and independent schools, as well as some special centres. Some teachers with special education qualifications are able to work in private practice, offering tutorial services for children with learning problems.

Demand for special education teachers is dependent on levels of government funding.