How to Ensure Compliance as a SENCO

For SENCOs in the UK, it’s essential to ensure that you’re complying with the legal requirements surrounding special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision in schools. In this article, we’ll explore how to ensure compliance as a SENCO, the potential impacts of not being compliant, and the importance of ongoing professional development.

The Role of a SENCO

As a qualified teacher in mainstream schools, the SENCO is responsible for overseeing the development of SEN policy and provision. To carry out this role effectively, SENCOs should have the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding outlined in the National Standards for SENCOs. It’s important to note that SENCOs are advised to form part of the school’s leadership team and are responsible for ensuring the implementation of the SEN policy on a day-to-day basis.

Ensuring Compliance

To ensure compliance as a SENCO, it’s crucial to be familiar with the legal requirements outlined in the Children and Families Act 2014, the Equality Act 2010, and the SEND Code of Practice. SENCOs must take steps to meet these requirements and ensure that their schools provide an inclusive learning environment for all children and young people with SEND. This includes making reasonable adjustments to accommodate their needs and ensuring that staff are trained to meet the needs of pupils with SEND.

Impacts of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the legal requirements surrounding SEN provision can have serious consequences for both the school and the children and young people with SEND. In addition to the risk of legal action, non-compliance can result in the exclusion of pupils with SEND, a lack of appropriate support, and a negative impact on their education and wellbeing.

The Importance of Ongoing Professional Development

To ensure compliance and provide the best possible support for children and young people with SEND, ongoing professional development is essential. SENCOs should take advantage of high-quality training opportunities and stay up-to-date with the latest guidance and best practices.

Ensuring compliance as a SENCO is crucial for providing the best possible support for children and young people with SEND. By being familiar with the legal requirements, making reasonable adjustments, and investing in ongoing professional development, SENCOs can ensure that their schools are providing an inclusive learning environment for all.

Links:

• Children and Families Act 2014: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/6/contents/enacted
• Equality Act 2010: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents
• SEND Code of Practice: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25