Module: SEN7100-30 The SENCO as a leader: from policy to practice

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Helen Curran

Module Tutor Contact Details: h.curran@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

The National Award for SENCO is a mandatory award for all Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) new to post. The module forms the first part of the Postgraduate Certificate in SEN Coordination, which combined with professionally assessed activities, leads to the qualification of National Award for SENCo.

This module is designed to enable you as a SENCO professional, supported by mentors and a range of professionals and members of the University, to complete 30 credits towards the requirements for the National Award for SEN Coordination (60 credits at M Level). The module is rooted in effective practice for schools and strongly focused on critically reflecting on practice to improve provision for pupils with SEN/disabilities. The module explores the role of the SENCo in relation to operational and strategic leadership.

In order to fulfil the requirements of being a SENCO, the course is designed along two integrated strands: a Professional Strand, which is designed to support SENCOs in meeting the set NCTL learning outcomes and a Master’s Strand which is designed to support the SENCos in meeting the Intended Learning Outcomes through critical reflection. You must successfully complete both NA SENCO modules and meet all of the NCTL Learning Outcomes to exit with the NA SENCO qualification.

2.Outline syllabus

The module addresses the modules ILOs in addition to the learning outcomes for the National Award for SENCO as set by the National College for Teaching and Learning (NCTL) (2014).

This includes critical reflection and exploration of the following areas: Module 1

• The role of the SENCO as a leader
• The policy and legislative context for Special Educational Needs.
• Pupil and parent voice
• Governance
• Resource management, including personnel (Teaching assistants)

3.Teaching and learning activities

Teaching methods comprise of teaching days, workshops and tutorials. You will also meet in small mentor groups, with support from an experienced SENCO.

Additional workshops focus on the professional portfolio, assignments, writing at Masters level, research and use of the library resources.

Best Practice Network teach through face to face sessions, online workshops and individual tutorials with support from expert SEND professionals currently employed in the field of SEND.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Written assignment 7,500 words
• % Weighting: 100%