NPQ for SENDCO

From September 2024 this course replaces the NASENCO qualification as the mandatory qualification for SENCOs. Colleagues who have completed NASENCO will not need to complete the NPQ.

The leadership level national professional qualification (NPQ) will become the mandatory qualification for SENCOs from September 2024, replacing the NASENCO qualification. Teaching of the NPQ for SENCOs will begin in autumn 2024.

he NPQ for SENCOs content framework sets out what participants should know and be able to do after completing the qualification.

Leadership NPQ courses last between 18 and 22 months, including the time to undertake assessment and receive results. Approved NPQ providers will determine the course structure, content, and method of delivery.

Special educational needs co-ordinator’s national professional qualification provides further information about the delivery model, providers, and start date.

Requirements for SENCOs

SENCOs who have already obtained the NASENCO do not need to complete the SENCO NPQ.

From September 2024, all SENCOs and aspiring SENCOs will need to:

take the NPQ if they have not completed or started the NASENCO
complete training within 3 years of appointment – schools and SENCOs must make sure they enrol on training that will meet this requirement

SENCOs appointed before 1 September 2009 are not be required to take the NPQ, but will be expected to ensure compliance with the regulations.

You can read more about the new NPQ for SENDCO in this article from Ambition Institute.

The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales.

Registered Office: The Arthur Terry School, Kittoe Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B74 4RZ

Tel: 0121 323 1134

CEO Richard Gill CBE NPQH, NLE, FRSA

Company Number 07730920.

The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership is committed to keeping our students safe, both in school and the wider community. As part of our safeguarding arrangements, we have a two-way information sharing agreement in place with the local police authority. The agreement is compliant with Crime & Disorder Act 1998 (s.115) and Data Protection Act 1998(s.29.3; s.35.2.), and focuses on preventing young people from becoming involved or further involved in crime and anti-social behaviour as a victim or offender.

If you have any queries about the partnership policy, please contact Mrs S Bailey, ATLP Safeguarding Lead.