The National Award Senco (NASENCO) PGCert, Education (Special Educational Needs Coordination)

The National Award SENCo (NASENCO) is a statutory award for newly appointed SENCOs (since 2008) in maintained schools. It is fully validated as a University of Worcester award, the Postgraduate Certificate Education (Special Educational Needs Coordination) (60 credits at Masters level). NASC is also available to experienced SENCOs.

In November 2015, NASENCO provision at the University of Worcester was recognised as attaining the peer generated Quality Standards Framework and is therefore registered as provider on the NASEN portal.

NASENCO at the University of Worcester has an exceptionally high attendance and retention rate. The external examiner has commended on aspects of “exemplary practice” in course provision. Former students describe course lecturers as “superb - engaging and approachable with a positive, enthusiastic attitude; always willing to help”. Participants particularly value opportunities to discuss and share good practice. They have also commented on the attraction of learning to critically evaluate their own practice, and having constructive conversations with experienced specialists in the field.

Participants also report significant impact of the course on their learners, their schools and on their own practice.

The course offered at the University is distinctive because:

• Better inclusive practices are ensured for learners with special educational needs
• Opportunities are provided to work with other SENCos in a diversity of settings
• Clear links are established between theory and practice
• A sound blend of face to face and virtual modes of learning is offered
• Former participants and their schools rate this course very highly
• The TDA mid-term course evaluation recognised its very high quality.