Secret Life of SENCOs

Adam Boddison is CEO for the Association of Project Management where he is responsible for the delivery of its strategic goals to successfully support its charitable objects and chartered status. Prior to this, Adam was CEO for the National Association for Special Educational Needs (nasen) for six years. Adam is Visiting Professor at the University of Leicester and Stranmillis University College.Maxine O’Neill is Headteacher at Hope SEMH School. Maxine is profoundly passionate about inclusion from both a personal and professional stance and works to improve long-term social, personal and academic outcomes for children and young people.

• Figures, Tables and BoxesHave a HEART!Foreword by Tina Emery OBEIntroductionChapter 1: Evolution of the SENCO RoleChapter 2: The Alternatives to School ExclusionsChapter 3: Data for DeliveryChapter 4: Lessons Learned, Lessons AppliedChapter 5: Individual StoriesGlossary of AcronymsReferencesIndex

“A beautifully constructed SENCO guide sharing the honest reality of the role with the heart, diligence and passion of those who’ve lived it woven throughout. Highly insightful with practical approaches and ideas. An absolute must for all SENCOs, both new and experienced.”Kate Williams, SEND Consultant and Qualified SENCO“Being a SENCO is one of the most fulfilling, but challenging roles in education. The approach Adam and Maxine take in their book is to make you consider the factors that put children and young people at the forefront of our practice. This book is essential reading for any prospective or practicing SENCOs, making the role accessible and chunking everything you need to consider. It gives practical advice based on theory and is a thoroughly enjoyable read.”John Holt, Local Authority SEND Lead“An accessible, eye-opening read about the extensive, often invisible, work of SENCOs. A stark reminder that meeting the needs of young people with SEND cannot solely be the role of the SENCO, it is paramount that there is a shared sense of responsibility between all who come into contact with students with barriers to learning in educational settings. Written by experts in the field, the authors use their extensive knowledge and experience to offer thoughtful insights and creative ideas around inclusive and adaptive teaching practices, such as 'dynamic risk-assessments' and 'pre-mortem' thinking. As highlighted in the book, adapting to ever changing cohorts, and the ever-increasing need for inclusivity in the classroom, is a challenge for all educational providers, regardless of the setting.”Jeanette Davies, Director of Music and Head of the Creative Arts Faculty, Birkenhead High School Academy (GDST – Girls Day School Trust)