The international NPQ for SENCOs is an 18-month leadership qualification for current or aspiring Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators and school leaders responsible for SEND. Accredited by England’s DfE, it covers eight domains including school culture, statutory framework, and teaching. The program includes virtual events, self-study, coaching, and culminates in an assessment. It aims to develop strategic leadership to improve inclusive SEND provision and outcomes. Applicants need teaching experience, leadership aspiration, and a Teacher Reference Number.
The international National Professional Qualification for Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (NPQ for SENCOs) is an 18-month leadership qualification for current or aspiring Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs) and school leaders responsible for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to lead high-quality SEND provision and is accredited by England’s Department for Education (DfE).
Who is the international NPQ for SENCOs for?
The international NPQ for SENCOs is intended primarily for:
- Current or aspiring SENCOs.
- School leaders responsible for SEND.
The qualification focuses on the strategic leadership of high-quality and inclusive SEND provision. You can find more information on the international NPQ for SENCOs course page.
What will you learn?
The international NPQ for SENCOs curriculum covers eight domains:
- School culture.
- Statutory framework.
- Identification of need.
- Teaching.
- Behaviour.
- Leading and managing provision.
- Professional development.
- Implementation.
Across these domains, you will learn evidence-informed principles described as “learn that…” and practical applications described as “learn how to…”. These are designed to strengthen inclusive practice and whole-school leadership.
What impact does the qualification aim to have?
The NPQ framework positions SENCOs as strategic leaders who shape an inclusive culture and influence teaching, curriculum and behaviour policy. It also develops your ability to work effectively with families and agencies, and to ensure pupils with SEND participate fully and achieve ambitious outcomes.
The qualification aims to build a common language and professional network that can sustain improvement. You can read the NPQ for SENCOs framework for further details.
How long is the programme?
Best Practice Network’s international NPQ for SENCOs runs over 18 months. It includes approximately 90 to 94 learning hours.
What does the programme include?
The international NPQ for SENCOs includes:
- Four virtual face-to-face events.
- Access to research and case studies.
- Self-study modules.
- One-to-one coaching.
The programme is accredited by England’s DfE.
Who can apply?
To apply for the international NPQ for SENCOs, you need:
- A relevant sponsor from your school or organisation who can confirm their support and the accuracy of the information in your application.
- At least two years’ teaching experience.
- Leadership aspiration or experience.
- Proficiency in English.
- A Teacher Reference Number (TRN), or a willingness to obtain one with support during registration.
If you are unsure whether your experience is suitable, contact the team for guidance through the international NPQ for SENCOs course page.
Why do you need a Teacher Reference Number?
A Teacher Reference Number uniquely identifies you within England’s education system. You need a TRN to complete mandatory NPQ surveys and access your DfE certificate after successfully completing the programme.
If you do not already have a TRN, including if you are based outside England, you will receive support to obtain one during registration. Read the international TRN guidance for more information.
How is the learning delivered?
Learning follows a repeating cycle:
- You begin with a face-to-face event, which you can attend in person or remotely.
- You complete online modules, practice activities and formative tasks that you can apply immediately in your setting.
- You take part in in-school performance coaching to embed change in SEND provision.
How will you be assessed?
The programme culminates in an Impact Review followed by a summative assessment case study. This allows you to demonstrate your expertise and the measurable impact of your leadership on inclusive education.
What are the benefits for you and your school?
Graduates strengthen their strategic SEND leadership, understanding of statutory responsibilities and use of evidence-based practice. This can improve provision and outcomes for pupils.
Schools gain confident leaders who can:
- Train colleagues.
- Manage resources effectively.
- Foster collaboration with families, specialists and the wider school community.
How to apply
- Go to the international NPQ for SENCOs course page.
- Select the “Register now” button.