Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 56
56
Acknowledged
Strong senior leadership on SEND is crucial for effective inclusion across schools.
Conclusion
Strong leadership on SEND is essential to delivering effective and inclusive education. Often the bulk of responsibility for SEND inclusion falls to a single SENCO and this should not be the case. Evidence shows that when senior leadership prioritises inclusion, this commitment permeates throughout the school, positively influencing staff attitudes and pupil experiences. Embedding SEND awareness and inclusion as a strategic focus at the highest-level drives culture change and ensures that inclusive practices are consistently implemented. (Conclusion, Paragraph 217)
Government Response Summary
The government's response mentions the mandatory NPQ for SENCOs and a review of NPQ frameworks in 2025 to strengthen inclusive leadership practices, which aligns with the conclusion's emphasis on strong, strategic SEND leadership.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
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.