The Secret Life of SENCOs: Practical Insights on Inclusion and Specialist Provision

Only two roles are statutorily required in maintained schools, the Headteacher and the SENCO, and of these, only the SENCO is required to be a qualified teacher, demonstrating just how vital SENCOs are. But being the SENCO can be a lonely role as there is typically only one per school, so it is not always easy to know how SENCOs in other schools are undertaking the role, and there is plenty of what SENCOs do that does not get seen.

This book shares the wisdom and experience of individual SENCOs with the entire SENCO community. It provides practical insights on inclusion and specialist provision, and reveals the professional inner secrets of SENCOs, from the things SENCOs wish they had known at the outset of their career to the best and worst decisions they have made. The chapters explore alternatives to school exclusion, examine ways of using data to improve inclusion and share the inspirational stories of individual learners with SEND.

The Secret Life of SENCOs will transform how you deliver the SENCO role by combining the benefit of hindsight with the luxury of insight to provide the privilege of foresight. It is a valuable resource for both new and experienced SENCOs, as well those considering beginning in the role.

Adam Boddison is CEO for the Association of Project Management where he is responsible for the delivery of its strategic goals to successfully support its charitable objects and chartered status. Prior to this, Adam was CEO for the National Association for Special Educational Needs (nasen) for six years. Adam is Visiting Professor at the University of Leicester and Stranmillis University College.

Maxine O’Neill is Headteacher at Hope SEMH School. Maxine is profoundly passionate about inclusion from both a personal and professional stance and works to improve long-term social, personal and academic outcomes for children and young people.