What is the NPQ for SENCOs and who is it for?
The National Professional Qualification for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (NPQ for SENCOs) is a leadership-level qualification that develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to lead high-quality SEND provision; it is intended primarily for current or aspiring SENCOs and school leaders responsible for SEND. bpninternational.com
What will I learn?
The curriculum is built around eight domains: school culture; statutory framework; identification of need; teaching; behaviour; leading and managing provision; professional development; and implementation. Across these areas you’ll learn evidence-informed principles (“learn that…”) and practical application (“learn how to…”) designed to strengthen inclusive practice and whole-school leadership. bpninternational.com
What impact does the NPQ aim to have?
The framework emphasises SENCOs as strategic leaders who shape inclusive culture, influence teaching, curriculum and behaviour policy, work effectively with families and agencies, and ensure pupils with SEND participate fully and achieve ambitious outcomes - building a common language and network to sustain improvement. bestpracticenet.co.uk
Structure & Delivery
How long is the programme and what does it include?
Best Practice Network’s international NPQ for SENCOs runs over 18 months and includes four virtual face-to-face events, access to research and case studies with self-study modules, one-to-one coaching, and a total of roughly 90–94 learning hours; the programme is accredited by England’s Department for Education. bpninternational.com
Eligibility
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants need a relevant sponsor from their school or organisation to confirm support and accuracy of application information, at least two years’ teaching experience, leadership aspiration or experience, and proficiency in English. A Teacher Reference Number (TRN) is also required, however, if you do not already have one then you will be supported to obtain one during the registration process.
If you’re unsure whether your experience is suitable, you’re encouraged to contact the team for guidance. bpninternational.com
Do I need a Teacher Reference Number (TRN) and how do I get one if I’m outside England?
A TRN uniquely identifies you within England’s education system and is needed to complete mandatory NPQ surveys and access your DfE certificate upon successful completion of your programme.
If you don’t have one (e.g., you’re overseas), you will be supported to obtain one during the registration process. bpninternational.com
Learning Experience & Assessment
How is the learning delivered?
Learning follows a repeating cycle that starts with a face-to-face event (attend in person or remotely), then moves through online modules, practice activities and formative tasks you can apply immediately in your setting, and concludes with in-school performance coaching to embed change in SEND provision. bpninternational.com
How will I be assessed?
The programme culminates in an Impact Review followed by a summative assessment case study, allowing you to demonstrate your expertise and the measurable impact of your leadership on inclusive education. bpninternational.com
Outcomes & Support
What benefits can this bring to me and my school?
Graduates strengthen strategic SEND leadership, compliance with statutory responsibilities, and evidence-based practice, improving provision and outcomes for pupils; schools gain confident leaders who can train colleagues, manage resources effectively, and foster collaboration with families, specialists and the wider school community. bpninternational.com
How do I apply
Please click the “Register now” button on the relevant course page:
bpninternational.com