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SENCO (Special educational needs coordinator)

The qualified teacher in a school responsible for coordinating provision for pupils with SEN. In England, new SENCOs must gain a national qualification for the role.

Stands for
Special educational needs coordinator
Used in
England, Northern Ireland
Topic
SEND and special education

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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SEND (Special educational needs and disabilities) England
The term used in England for children and young people who have a learning difficulty or disability that needs special educational provision, as defined in the Children and Families Act 2014.
NPQ for SENCOs (National Professional Qualification for Special Educational Needs Coordinators) England
The mandatory national qualification in England for newly appointed SENCOs, which replaced the National Award for SEN Co-ordination.
ALNCo (Additional learning needs coordinator) Wales
The person in a school or college in Wales responsible for coordinating additional learning provision.
SEN support England
Support for pupils with SEN who do not have an EHCP, provided by the school using its own resources and the graduated approach.

More terms: SEND and special education

SEN Framework (NI) · SEN information report · SEN unit · SEND Code of Practice · SEND register · SEND Tribunal

More terms starting with S · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.