Special Educational Needs Coordination

The programme aims to develop participants’ professional knowledge and critical understanding of key concepts and debates addressed in the academic and professional literature in order to lead and co-ordinate special educational needs and disability (SEN and D) provision across an educational setting.

Distance learning is available.

By the end of the programme students should be able to:

• contribute to contemporary debate in the fields of both special education as well as inclusion and disability studies
• produce and communicate reasoned and informed reflective argument, both in writing and orally
• carry out a focused practitioner inquiry relating to the role of the SENCO, supported by relevant literature sources
• improve professional practice through greater knowledge, skills, understanding and awareness

Students undertake modules to the value of 60 credits. The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits each).

Core modules

• Special Educational Needs Coordination: Improving Teaching and Learning
• Special Educational Needs Coordination: Leading and Managing Change

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Each module is delivered over six days. A Learning Log needs to be completed as the practical component.  Assessment is through a practitioner enquiry assignment for both modules consisting of 4,500-5000 words each. The focus is on the practitioner as researcher within the participants’ own education institution.

Applicants are required to have QTS (qualified teacher status) or equivalent. A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is also required. Those who do not meet these degree criteria have to show an ability to meet the demands of the programme through an extended personal statement. 
Applicants need to be a SENCO or aspiring SENCO and have completed a Headteacher approval form (signed by Headteacher or Line manager) indicating support for you to meet all the learning outcomes of the National Award for SENCOs.