What is SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)?

The SENCo is responsible for the day-to-day running of a school’s SEN policy. They help colleagues identify pupils’ needs, coordinate SEN support, keep records, work with parents and carers, and liaise with the local authority and outside agencies such as educational psychologists and health services. Many schools call the role SENDCo.

Under the SEND Code of Practice, mainstream schools in England must appoint a SENCo who is a qualified teacher (or the headteacher) working at the school. Since September 2024, newly appointed SENCos must achieve the National Professional Qualification for SENCOs within three years of appointment, although some existing SENCos are exempt.

England and Wales

In Wales, the role was replaced by the additional learning needs coordinator (ALNCo) under the ALN system. The purpose is similar, but the legal framework and plans are different.

Why it matters for your setting

• When a pupil is placed with you by a school, the SENCo is usually the best person to explain their needs and any EHCP.
• Sharing progress with the SENCo helps annual reviews and keeps support joined up.
• Recording the SENCo against each pupil means you can reach them quickly when something changes.

How PupilDB helps

PupilDB records SEN/ALN status and the coordinator on each pupil’s record, so the right contact is always to hand.