Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she is taking to strengthen the role of Special Education Needs Coordinators in schools.

Special educational needs co-ordinators (SENCOs) play a critical role in schools and will continue to do so in the proposed reformed special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system. As set out in the SEND reform: putting children and young people first consultation, we want to ensure their expertise is used at a setting level to improve outcomes for all pupils with SEND.

We are considering how best to support SENCOs to carry out their role effectively and reduce existing burdens. We are exploring opportunities to streamline processes, including through digital improvements, set clearer expectations and share responsibility for SEND across the workforce. We anticipate that SENCOs will play a key role in the strategic leadership of SEND and inclusion, working alongside leaders to drive, deliver and embed inclusive practice.

The final shape of the role will be informed by consultation feedback and further work with the sector, and we will revise the mandatory SENCO national professional qualification to ensure that SENCOs are equipped for their new role.