Level 3 Early Years Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) in Private, Voluntary and Independent (PVI) settings Course. Study online, at your own pace, in around 3 months. All early years providers in PVI settings must have arrangements in place to identify and support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This qualification prepares you to take on that coordinator role, helping ensure the best outcomes for children with SEND in your setting. You must be at least 16 and hold a Level 3 early years practitioner qualification.
Who this course is for
The Early Years Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) qualification is for a Level 3 practitioner in a private, voluntary or independent setting. All early years providers are required to have arrangements in place to identify and support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and to promote equality of opportunity for children in their care. This is an important role to ensure the best possible educational outcomes are achieved for children with SEND.
The qualification is designed for those already working in a SENCo role as part of their early years practitioner role, or those who are interested in doing so.
Entry requirements
Learners must be at least 16 years old.
What you will learn
You'll understand the legal and statutory frameworks that govern SEND provision in early years settings.
You'll learn how to identify children who may have special educational needs or disabilities.
You'll develop skills to support children with SEND and promote equality of opportunity in your setting.
You'll learn how to work with parents, carers, and external professionals to coordinate SEND support.
You'll understand how to create and review individual support plans for children with SEND.
You'll learn how to lead and advise colleagues on SEND practice within a PVI setting.
How you will learn
You study online, working through course materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment is through written assignments and portfolio evidence that you submit online. Brighter Beginnings Day Nursery will confirm the full assessment requirements and any workplace evidence needed before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Brighter Beginnings Day Nursery will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) in a PVI early years setting
Nursery practitioner with SEND lead responsibilities
SEN teaching assistant supporting children with additional needs
Teaching assistant in a school or early years setting
Early years room leader with SEND oversight
Childcare practitioner in a specialist SEND provision
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services: moves you toward management and leadership roles in early years or SEND provision.
Level 3 Award in Special Educational Needs and Disability: deepens your SEND knowledge further.
Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS): for those wanting to move into a qualified teacher role in early years settings.
