Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 55
55
Not Addressed
SENCOs face significant challenges despite new National Professional Qualification for their role.
Conclusion
We welcome the introduction of the new National Professional Qualification (NPQ) for SENCOs as a positive step towards enhancing the leadership and expertise of SEND provision in schools and multi-academy trusts. However, further action is urgently needed. The scale of the challenges facing SENCOs including excessive workloads, insufficient time to carry out their statutory duties, and a lack of support requires immediate attention. (Conclusion, Paragraph 216)
Government Response Summary
The government's response highlights the mandatory NPQ for SENCOs and a review of its content and delivery in 2025, but does not address the urgent challenges of excessive SENCO workloads, insufficient time, or lack of support.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
In autumn 2024, we began delivery of the NPQ for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (NPQ for SENCOs). This is now the mandatory qualification for SENCOs in mainstream schools. Participants will develop the essential knowledge and skills needed to set the strategic direction of SEN policy in a school and the conditions in which pupils with SEND can thrive. We want to ensure that NPQs continue to offer the best possible support to teachers and leaders wanting to develop their knowledge and skills. On 10 January 2025, we began formally reviewing NPQ content frameworks and delivery, to consider new evidence and best-practice. SEND and inclusion is a priority area for the review for which we are engaging extensively with stakeholders from across the sector. We aim to update the NPQ frameworks to strengthen inclusive leadership practices to ensure high-quality teaching for all pupils, as well as increase the understanding and awareness of targeted support for pupils with additional needs. To support the review, the department has convened an expert steering group (ESG), representing a wide range of expertise from across the education sector, including SEND experts and serving school leaders. The work of the ESG will also be complimented by a wide-ranging programme of engagement from across the sector.