Developing Your Expertise as a SENCo

Leading Inclusive Practice

Edited by Helen Knowler, Hazel Richards, Stephanie Brewster

Publication date:

02 October 2023

Publisher

Critical Publishing

Dimensions:

246x174mm
7x10"

ISBN-13: 9781915080868

This book equips SENCOs and aspiring SENCOs to engage in high level continuing professional development activity associated with studying for mandatory qualifications, and supports critical and innovative practice and career progression.

Written by a multi-disciplinary team, it embraces sociological, medical and post-modern perspectives. It will be of interest to researchers and practitioners as it also critiques current theory, legislation, policy and research and how these can be transferred into settings. The book considers issues that SENCo's will experience both in their role and as part of this professional development, identifying the complexity of issues they have to consider and priorities in their role.

A range of pedagogic and interactive features are used to support the development of study skills when working at postgraduate level such as:

research and literature searching;
knowledge building and skills development in SENCo;
the ability to galvanise change in their context including difficult and respectful conversations about SEN provision and
the development of leadership skills.

This book is unique in its link between the academic and professional dimensions of the mandatory qualification - a bridge between engaging in CPD and practice of the SENCo role.

Part One: Examining the SENCo role

Chapter 1 – Examining the SENCo role

Chapter 2 – SENCo professional identity and development

Chapter 3 - SENCos and inclusive pedagogy

Chapter 4 – The SENCo as leader: speaking up and speaking out

Chapter 5 – SENCos engaging with theory

Part Two: The SENCo at work

Chapter 6 - The SENCo role across age phases

Chapter 7 – Working with children and young people experiencing additional challenges

Chapter 8 – Working with parents

Chapter 9 – Working with other professionals

Chapter 10 – Working with critical reflection on professional practice

Chapter 11 – SENCos using data

Chapter 12 - Evidence based practice to promote advocacy for learners with SEND

"...a book that is relevant to all SENCOs. The authors and editors have deftly drawn together expertise spanning research, policy and practice in a way that is both relatable and accessible for SENCOs at all stages of their career.

SENCOs often have significant demands on their time, but applying the wisdom shared in this book will undoubtedly save them time as they become more effective in the role. Throughout, the authors emphasise the agency of SENCOs and the critical leadership role they play, not just for those with SEND for inclusion across the entire setting.

Above all, this book acts as a North Star for SENCOs, with its ethical golden thread guiding them to do what is right rather than what is easy. If you are a SENCO, this book should be at the top of your reading list."