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How do I become a SENCO?

By George Wilks · Updated 31 Oct 2026

Short answer

A SENCO (special educational needs coordinator) must be a qualified teacher or the headteacher. New SENCOs must complete the National Professional Qualification (NPQ) for SENCOs within three years of starting the role.

Detail

Most SENCOs are experienced teachers who have worked with pupils with SEND, sometimes as an assistant SENCO first. The NPQ for SENCOs replaced the older NASENCO award for new SENCOs from September 2024. Pay is set by the school: SENCOs are often paid a TLR or the SEN allowance, and some are on the leadership range.

Related answers

What is an EHCP?

An education, health and care plan (EHCP) is a legal document for a child or young person aged 0–25 in England who has special educational needs and needs more support than their school or college can normally provide. The local authority writes it, and it sets out the child's needs, the outcomes they're working towards and the support they must receive.

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