“Increasingly broad shoulders”: The changing role of SENCOs

The Coalition Government has promised a systemic overhaul of services for pupils with Special Educational Needs (DfE 2011). Although the precise implications for SENCOs are not yet known, the draft proposal indicates the government’s intention for increased parental choice over provision and ‘sharper accountability’ in schools. Drawing on data from national surveys of SENCOs in 2007 and 2012, this presentation explores the changing profile of SENCOs, and their divergent aspirations and concerns about forthcoming changes to their role.