How to empower your SENCO to carry out their role effectively

Get advice on how to help your SENCO establish their authority within your school so they can develop and maintain high-quality SEND provision for your pupils. Find out how to boost their influence and impact across the leadership of your school.

Last reviewed on 9 January 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 52760
Contents
  1. Be clear on your SENCO’s responsibilities and Ofsted’s expectations
  2. Consider including your SENCO in the senior leadership team
  3. Or you can make your SENCO part of an informal SLT
  4. Either way, make sure their authority is visible across your school community 
  5. Give your SENCO an active role in curriculum planning
  6. Get your SENCO working closely with school leaders and staff

Be clear on your SENCO’s responsibilities and Ofsted’s expectations

Your SENCO’s exact responsibilities will depend on your school’s needs, but key responsibilities that should be delegated to them include: 

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