Early years, school & college

Support is available for your child at their nursery, school or college. To find out more, speak to your child’s teacher, carer or special educational needs coordinator (SENCO).

A SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) is a member of school staff who leads on supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Their responsibilities typically include:

Overseeing the day-to-day SEND provision in the school and coordinating support for students with SEND. This involves working with students, teachers, parents and other professionals.

Identifying and assessing students who may have SEND, arranging targeted support and monitoring their progress. This can involve referring students for specialist assessments or support.

Ensuring the school meets the requirements of relevant laws and policies related to SEND and inclusivity. For example, making sure Individual Education Plans are developed and reviewed.

Advising school leadership on areas of SEND and inclusivity that can be improved in the school, as well as helping to implement those changes.

Keeping up-to-date with developments in SEND good practice, legislation and guidance to inform the support given to students.

Liaising with external specialists and services, like educational psychologists, speech and language therapists etc. This helps in getting expert input and tailored support for students with SEND.

Developing links between school, families and outside agencies in order to fully support the development and progress of students with SEND.

If the school or college is unable to offer the support your child needs, you have the option to apply for anEHCP.