Minimum requirements to be a SPED teacher
The minimum requirements are based on the type of qualification you have:
Local A-Level or diploma
You must have 1 of the following:
- GCE A-Level certificate.
- Polytechnic diploma.
- Diploma from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA).
- Diploma from Lasalle College of the Arts.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.
- Any other equivalent or relevant qualifications.
International special education qualifications
You must have all of the following:
- Bachelor's or Masters degree in special education.
- Teaching practicum at a special education school as part of your studies.
- Transcript showing special education teaching practicum and English Language competence, if your degree was not conducted in English.
Degree holders are also welcome to apply.
Salary
You will receive a starting monthly salary of $2,620 to $3,120 while undergoing your untrained teaching stint in school.
Your exact salary would depend on factors such as:
- Your academic training.
- Your relevant experience to teaching.
- Time spent on your job.
You can contact the special education school that you are interested in on the types of benefits that you will be eligible for.
Information on salaries is accurate at the point of publication but may be subject to review and change.
How to apply
Apply directly to one of the special education schools. Applications are open year-round.
If you are an MOE teacher considering a secondment to a special education school, you can do so through the annual Open Posting Exercise. Special education schools will post vacancies in this exercise.
After your untrained teaching stint
All untrained SPED teachers are required to complete the Diploma in Special Education (DISE) programme conducted by the National Institute of Education and fully funded by MOE. Your school will assess your suitability during your untrained teaching stint and nominate you for the DISE programme.
If you are successfully enrolled in the DISE, you will receive a training allowance from the school. After successfully completing the DISE, you will serve a bond of 3 years with the special education school.
As a trained teacher, you will be able to access other professional development opportunities to continue building your knowledge and skills and help you reach your career aspirations.