The NPQSENCO is an 18-month leadership qualification for current and aspiring SENCOs and school leaders, launched in autumn 2024. It offers blended learning, including face-to-face events, online study via Canvas, webinars, and one-to-one coaching. The program provides expertise in SEND, with 90-94 guided hours, requires formal school support, a Teacher Reference Number, and two years' teaching experience. It carries 60 Level 7 credits, counting towards a Master’s degree. Registration is via Best Practice Network.
The National Professional Qualification for Special Educational Needs Coordinators (NPQSENCO) is an 18-month, leadership-level qualification for current and aspiring Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) and school leaders seeking deeper expertise in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Launched in autumn 2024, it replaced the former NASENCO qualification.
Who is the NPQSENCO for?
The NPQSENCO is for:
- current SENCOs
- teachers aspiring to become SENCOs
- school leaders who want deeper expertise in SEND
What will you learn?
The NPQSENCO equips you with the expertise and leadership skills to champion inclusive practice. The programme prepares graduates to lead whole-school inclusive practice, implement sustainable improvements and share a common professional language with other leaders, known as the “golden thread”.
How long does the NPQSENCO take?
The NPQSENCO takes 18 months. It includes a total of 90 to 94 guided learning hours.
How is the NPQSENCO delivered?
The NPQSENCO uses blended learning, including:
- four face-to-face events
- online study
- webinars
- one-to-one coaching
Face-to-face events are delivered through Best Practice Network’s national partnership network, allowing you to attend in your region.
Which online learning platform is used?
Online NPQSENCO learning takes place through Canvas, Best Practice Network’s virtual learning environment. Canvas provides multimedia content, peer communities and feedback from performance coaches.
What support will you receive?
One-to-one coaching is a core element of the NPQSENCO programme. Experienced SEND professionals facilitate the programme and provide high-quality feedback and support to help you pass the final assessment.
Programme content is contextualised to your locality and updated to reflect national developments.
What are the entry requirements?
To join the NPQSENCO, you need:
- formal support from your school or organisation, confirmed by a headteacher, senior leadership team (SLT) member, line manager or governor
- a Teacher Reference Number (TRN)
- at least two years of teaching experience
- an opportunity to apply your learning
How can you find or obtain a Teacher Reference Number?
If you do not know your Teacher Reference Number, use Best Practice Network’s TRN Guidance. It explains how to retrieve your number through the Teacher Services portal or request one, including if you are outside England, and lists contacts for help with any problems.
Can the NPQSENCO count towards a Master’s degree?
Yes. The NPQSENCO carries 60 Level 7 credits, for example with the University of Chester, which can count towards a full Master’s degree. More information is available on the Master’s credits for National Professional Qualifications page.
How do you register your interest?
- Visit the NPQSENCO programme page.
- Select the “Register Interest Now” button.
- Best Practice Network will follow up with the next steps.