Level 3 Award for Special Educational Needs Coordinators in Early Years Settings

Description

Do you know what a SENCO is? They are specialists who coordinate essential support for children with additional learning needs. 

However, our special educational needs coordination programme prepares you for that role in plain, everyday language. You’ll learn to recognise children who need extra help. You’ll talk to parents and guide your whole team.

What a SENCO Actually Does in a Nursery

It’s the person who knows when a two-year-old is falling behind. And they know what to do next. As a qualified SENCO, you’ll look after:

• Identifying children who need extra help early on
• Making support plans with parents and staff
• Talking to health visitors, speech therapists, and GPs
• Following the SEND Code of Practice in your setting
• Helping colleagues feel confident with the child

Why This Qualification Matters for Early Years Environments

Ofsted expects every nursery to have a trained SENCO. Without one, children can miss the support they need. The Level 3 Award shows you take special educational needs coordination seriously. Ofsted, your council, and parents will all see that. With 9,500 funded places up to 2028, the DfE has made this role a national priority.

The Two Core Units You’ll Complete

The qualification follows two mandatory NCFE CACHE units. Both are online with tutor support.

1. Roles and Responsibilities of the SENCO in Early Years
2. Strategies and Techniques for Supporting Children and Families

Within these units, you’ll cover:

• What the law and SEND Code of Practice say
• Understanding the four main types of need
• Making plans that truly include the family
• Working with outside experts and knowing when to refer
• Helping children move up to school at age four

Who Should Take This Course

Our early years SENCO Level 3 qualification suits staff in PVI nurseries and childminders alike. You’ll need a Level 2 or Level 3 early years qualification or solid nursery experience.
It’s a good fit if you’re stepping into the SENCO role, leading SEND practice, or caring for children with extra needs. Pre-school leaders getting ready for Ofsted will find it just as useful.

Be the SENCO Your Nursery Needs

It starts with the right training. Our Level 3 Award qualifies you in special educational needs coordination online. You’ll earn a nationally recognised certificate at the end. Enrol today and join the practitioners leading the coordination in education for children who need it most.