The SENco Handbook ─ Leading and Managing a Whole School Approach

This sixth edition of the best-selling SENCo Handbook has been extensively updated to take account of the SEND Code of Practice (2014), recent research, and implications for policy and practice in schools and for SENCos. It provides vital information, practical approaches to the SENCo role and responsibilities, and perceptive analysis of issues, relevant to all schools, early years settings and colleges. Debating and discussing how the SENCo role has changed and will change, this book will help all SENCos, headteachers and school leaders to create and implement effective whole-school policy and practice for special educational needs.

Key topics include:

• leading and managing change in SEN policy and practice

• building the capacity of class and subject teachers to meet the needs of pupils

• managing the graduated response for those with identified additional needs

• tracking and recording progress

• developing whole-school approaches to policy and practice for those with SEND

• the deployment and management of support staff

• working with children, young people and their parents

• working in partnership with a range of outside agencies and services

Photocopiable training materials are included, as well as source lists for further reading and information.The SENCo Handbook is essential reading for those studying for the National Award for SEN Co-ordination, whilst more experienced SENCos will value its academic underpinning and common-sense on issues that matter.

Elizabeth Cowne has been actively involved in developing and delivering SENCo training for 30 years, largely associated with the outreach courses at the Institute of Education. She was the sole author of the first 5 editions of the SENCo handbooks and is author of many other publications.

Carol Frankl is Managing Director of the Southover Partnership, an independent special school and support service. She is also a tutor on the National Award for SENCO's course. Carol regularly contributes to SEN publications

Liz Gerschel has been training SENCOs, teachers, teaching assistants and governors for over 30 years. Liz helped to develop, and currently teaches, the NASENCO course for the Institute of Education, London. She was a Learning Difficulties Outreach Tutor for many years at the University of Birmingham and has published on SEN, governance and equalities.