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