Special educational needs coordinator (SENCO)

A SENCO is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school’s SEN policy.

A SENCO is a qualified teacher that arranges extra support for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN).

Their job is to:

  • put the setting's SEN policy into effect on a daily basis
  • help staff to support children with SEN
  • work with parents to help their child
  • work with local council support services
  • work with other professionals, for example, in health services.

Where SENCOs work

All mainstream schools and maintained nursery schools must have a SENCO.

Early Years providers

Other early years providers must meet the SEN of their children.

To do this, they might:

  • find someone who can take on the SENCO job
  • share the SENCO job between a group.

Find out more

Speak to, or visit, your child's setting to find out about their SENCO.