Module: SEN7101-30 - The role of the SENCO - provision for SEN

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 second part of the Postgraduate Certificate in SEN Coordination, which fulfils the academic requirements for the National Award for SENCO.

The module is rooted in effective practice for schools and is strongly focused on critically reflecting on practice to improve provision for pupils with SEN/disabilities. Specifically this module explores key areas, in theory and practice, associated with the SENCO role in a changing educational policy context. Leadership skills, specifically exploring the use and management of data, finance and personnel will be critically examined against practice and research evidence.

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 you in meeting the set learning outcomes and a Master’s Strand which is designed to deepen understanding of these learning outcomes through critical reflection. You must complete both NA SENCO modules and complete the professional strand to exit with the NA SENCO.

2.Outline syllabus

The module addresses the ILOS as well as the learning outcomes for the National Award for SENCO as set by the National College for Teaching and Learning (NCTL) (2014).

This includes exploration of the following areas:

Module 2

• High incidence SEN: planning and monitoring provision
• Person centred planning and provision
• Effective use of data to plan provision
• Finance
• Coordinating provision, deploying staff and data management

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: Impact reflection on one aspect of the Professional Development Portfolio (equivalent of 1,500 words)
• % Weighting: 20%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Written assignment (6000 words)
• % Weighting: 80%