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06/02/2024

What is a SENCo?

Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators, or SENCos, are pivotal in schools and other UK educational establishments. Tasked with the comprehensive management of the institution’s SEN policy, SENCos ensure that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the tailored support they need to thrive.  

Their work is crucial in making education accessible and inclusive for all students. In this blog post, brought to you by the team here at Seven Resourcing, we dive deep into the world of SENCos, shedding light on their duties, how to become one, and what compensation looks like for this essential role.


What Does a SENCo Do?


A SENCo supports children and young people with SEND, advocating for their needs and facilitating the necessary adjustments to promote their educational progress and well-being. Their responsibilities are broad and varied, including:

  • Developing and overseeing the implementation of the school’s SEN policy. SENCos work closely with the school leadership team to ensure that SEN provision is integrated into the overall educational framework and aligns with statutory requirements.  
  • Coordinating support for students with SEN. This involves liaising with teachers, support staff, parents or carers, and external agencies (such as speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, and health professionals) to create and implement effective support plans.  
  • Monitoring progress. SENCos track the educational progress of students with SEN, adapting support strategies as needed to ensure each child can achieve their full potential.  
  • Professional development and training. They play a crucial role in training staff on SEN issues and strategies, ensuring that all teachers are equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students.  
  • Resource management. Effective resource allocation and management are crucial to supporting the specific needs of SEN pupils, from specialised equipment to additional teaching support.

How Do You Become a SENCo?


To embark on becoming a SENCo, the first step is to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This clearly indicates the necessity for a solid foundation in teaching and understanding the educational landscape before specialising in SEN coordination. Following this, aspiring SENCos must:  

  • Gain experience in teaching. This provides practical insights into the challenges and opportunities within the educational field, especially relating to students with SEN.  
  • Complete the National Award for SEN Coordination. Within three years of taking up a SENCo position, one must complete this postgraduate qualification, which equips them with the specialised knowledge and skills required for effective SEN coordination.  

The journey to becoming a SENCo also involves a commitment to ongoing professional development, as understanding of SEN and educational strategies evolve continuously.


What is a SENCo Paid?


The salary of a SENCo in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as the location, size of the school, and the SENCo’s experience. Generally, SENCos are paid on the same scale as other teachers, but they may receive additional allowances to reflect the extra responsibilities of the role.  

As of the latest data, salaries for teachers in England who hold QTS start at £30,000. Experienced teachers, including SENCos, can earn more than this and more again for those in leadership positions. SENCos in London and the surrounding areas may receive a higher salary due to the London weighting allowance.  

Becoming a SENCo is not just a career choice but a commitment to making a significant difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND. It’s a role that demands passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of how to support diverse learning needs. For those who choose this path, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive educational landscape.


Is Being a SENCo a Hard Job?


The role of a SENCo is undeniably challenging, yet it is equally rewarding. It requires a delicate balance of administrative duties, hands-on support, and strategic planning while advocating for some of the most vulnerable children in the educational system. SENCos face a variety of demands daily, including:  

  • Navigating complex needs: Every child with SEN has a unique set of needs, and finding the right combination of support and interventions can be a complex process.  
  • Coordinating with multiple stakeholders: SENCos must effectively communicate and collaborate with teachers, parents, external agencies, and the students themselves, often bridging gaps in understanding and expectations.  
  • Managing administrative and legal responsibilities: Ensuring compliance with national SEN legislation and school policies requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of legal frameworks.  
  • Emotional resilience: Working closely with children who face significant challenges and advocating for their needs can be emotionally taxing, requiring a high level of empathy and resilience.  

Despite these challenges, many SENCos find great satisfaction in their role, particularly in witnessing the positive impact of their work on students’ lives. Their profession is driven by a commitment to inclusivity and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.


What Skills Do You Need to Be a SEN Teacher?


Becoming a successful SEN teacher requires specific skills and qualities that enable you to effectively support students with diverse needs. These include:  

  • Patience and empathy: Understanding the frustrations and challenges students with SEN may experience is crucial. Patience helps in tailoring learning experiences to each student’s pace and needs.  
  • Strong communication skills: This includes communicating effectively with students, parents, and professionals, often adapting your communication style to meet diverse needs.  
  • Creativity and adaptability: Finding innovative and flexible ways to engage students with SEN and adapt lessons to suit their learning styles is crucial to their success.  
  • Problem-solving skills: SEN teachers often need to think on their feet to address and overcome barriers to learning.  
  • Knowledge of SEN strategies and frameworks: A thorough understanding of the range of special educational needs and disabilities, and the strategies and interventions that can support learning.  
  • Organisational skills: Managing the varied needs of students, alongside the required paperwork and coordination with other professionals, requires excellent organisational abilities.  
  • Emotional intelligence: The ability to manage one’s own emotions and understand those of others can significantly impact the effectiveness of support provided to students.

Browse Our SENCo Roles Today!


So, if you want to take the next step in your career journey as a SENCo, we’d love to help! Browse our range of roles today and get in touch – we’d love to hear from you!  

Carry on reading