SEND Graduated Response Toolkit

Being a 'person-centred' SENDCO

The SEN Code of Practice 2014 created greater choice and control for parents and children.

Being a person-centred SENDco means:

  • Seeking permission from parents before contacting other professionals for support/advice.  Explain why and what you will share. Parents have the right to decline.
  • Providing parents with information and support so they can make informed choices and decisions.
  • Ongoing review of the setting’s approach to SEND

The role of the Key worker/ person

The key worker is the member of staff within your setting working closest with a group of children. The key worker may be the first to identify delay or difficulties. 

Key workers need to begin to ‘build a picture’ of a child’s skills and helps you to learn more about the child’s preferences and areas to develop.

Initial conversations with parents should begin with ‘have you noticed ?’ ‘X does this in setting, does he/she do that at home…?’

A short audio clip explains the role of the key person in working with children with SEND 

The role of the SENDCO

Support staff within your setting will implement the strategies that you have planned.

Use advice you’ve received from professionals previously. Visual timelines, objects of reference, sharing and turn-taking games are a few examples of strategies advised which you can begin to incorporate into your setting everyday practice. Make referrals to SALT and other services as required. 

Liaise with your setting manager and setting staff to ensure all are aware of their responsibilities within your setting SEN policy/guidance. Ensure all staff are aware that day-to-day SEN provision is how you ensure you are implementing the SEND code of Practice 2015. Recommend strategies, coordinate resources, update policies, provide support for families and the child.