SENCO: A Guide to Special Educational Needs Coordinators

A SENCO, or Special Educational Needs Coordinator, is a vital member of any school’s support team. This person is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the provision of support and resources for students with special educational needs.

SENCOs work closely with teachers, parents, and external agencies to identify and assess the needs of students with special educational needs and to provide the necessary support to help them achieve their full potential. This support can take many forms, such as accommodations, modifications, and interventions, and it can involve working with students both in and out of the classroom.

Qualifying as a SENCO

1. Qualified teacher status (QTS)
2. A minimum of two years of teaching experience
3. A postgraduate certificate in Special Educational Needs Coordination (SENCO) (NASENCO completed within 3 years of role)

In addition to these formal qualifications, SENCOs are expected to possess a range of skills and knowledge related to special educational needs and inclusive education practices. These may include:

• An understanding of different types of special educational needs and disabilities
• Knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework related to special educational needs and disability (SEND)
• The ability to assess and identify the needs of students with special educational needs
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with students, parents, and external agencies
• The ability to plan and coordinate effective support for students with special educational needs
• Knowledge of different accommodations, modifications, and interventions that can support students with special educational needs.

Becoming a SENCO requires a significant amount of education, training, and experience. However, for those with a passion for inclusive education and a desire to support students with special educational needs, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Key roles

• Overseeing and coordinating the provision of support and resources for students with special educational needs (SEN)
• Collaborating with teachers to identify and address any barriers to learning that may be present for students with SEN
• Providing accommodations, modifications, and interventions to support students with SEN
• Promoting inclusive education practices throughout the school
• Advocating for the rights and needs of students with SEN, both within the school and in the wider community
• Working with parents and external agencies to identify and assess the needs of students with SEN
• Providing training and resources to teachers to support inclusive education practices
• Ensuring that all students with SEN have access to the same opportunities and resources as their peers
• Empowering students with SEN to advocate for themselves and their needs

These roles require a high level of skill and knowledge, and SENCOs play a critical role in ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities or needs, have access to the resources and support they need to achieve their full potential.

The Goal of the SENCO

Highly Skilled and Super Supportive