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SENCOs’ responsibilities

Sets out the responsibilities of SENCOs in identifying and meeting the needs of all children and young people

Part of
Somerset’s Graduated Response Tool

The purpose of this pathway is to ensure every child and young person in a Somerset school receives the support they are entitled to

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Part of
Somerset’s Graduated Response Tool

The purpose of this pathway is to ensure every child and young person in a Somerset school receives the support they are entitled to

1

Statutory Special Educational Needs (SEN) information

Statutory Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) information
5

Expectations for Whole School Inclusion

Expectations for Whole School Inclusion
7

Inclusion for each Broad Area of Need

Information about the four areas of need set out in the Code of Practice

Inclusion for each Broad Area of Need
12

Graduated Response Tool – Complex Medical Needs

Graduated Response Tool – Complex Medical Needs
13

Supporting tools, documents and signposting

Supporting tools, documents and signposting

Overview

Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) must:

  • be able to support and advise the headteacher and governing body in determining the strategic development of SEN policy/provision in the school – this is achieved most effectively by being a member of the senior leadership team
  • have day-to-day responsibility for the operation of Special Educational Needs (SEN) policy and specific support to children and young people with SEN, including those with an Education, Heath and Care (EHC) plan
  • be a qualified teacher and work towards a National Award in Special Educational Needs Coordination within three years of becoming a SENCO
  • provide professional guidance to colleagues and work closely with staff, parent carers and other agencies
  • be aware of the Local Offer provision and provide support to families to make sure children and young people with SEN receive appropriate support
  • make sure their school keeps its record of children and young people with SEN up to date
  • compile an annual report for school governors about the provision for, and progress of, children and young people with SEN
  • have knowledge of the SEN budget and how it is used
  • advise on the graduated approach to providing SEN support
  • liaise with potential next providers of education to ensure children and young people and their parent carers are informed about options and a smooth transition is planned
  • work with the headteacher and SEN Governor to ensure that the school meets requirements under the Equality Act 2010 concerning reasonable adjustments and access arrangements

information

Did you know?

As a SENCO you can access the range of support available via SEND Networks and Inclusion Services.

Last updated: November 13, 2024

Next review due: May 13, 2025

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