The SENCo blueprint: leading change for SEND and Inclusion

The provision of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in England is undergoing rapid reform amid persistent challenges that affect equity and stability across the system. Central to addressing these issues is the role of the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo), whose strategic leadership is critical to embedding inclusive practice in early years settings, schools, and trusts. This report examines how the SENCo role can be strengthened to drive effective SEND and inclusion, drawing on statutory requirements, current research, and practical solutions to tackle the ongoing SEND crisis. It presents findings from a national survey conducted in summer 2024 by the National SENCo Advocacy Network, capturing the lived experiences of SENCos and identifying key barriers and enablers to high-quality provision