VTCT Skills Level 3 Award in the Principles of a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator

Course Description

Course Content

• Principles of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
• Early intervention and inclusive practice
• Understanding Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• SEND legislation and statutory guidance
• The SEND Code of Practice
• Roles and responsibilities of the SEN Coordinator
• The Graduated Approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review)
• Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans
• Personal Inclusion Plans (PIP)
• Partnership with parents and carers
• Working with external professionals and agencies
• Supporting children with English as an Additional Language (EAL)
• Local Authority Local Offer
• Professional development for SENCOs
• Supporting positive outcomes for children with SEND
• Planning effective transitions between settings

Health & Safety

Learners will develop an understanding of their professional responsibilities for promoting safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments for children with SEND. Training explores safeguarding responsibilities, inclusive practice, effective collaboration with colleagues and external professionals, and the importance of maintaining policies and procedures that support children’s wellbeing and educational development.

SEND Legislation & Professional Responsibilities

Learners will gain detailed knowledge of the legislation and statutory guidance that underpins SEND provision, including the SEND Code of Practice, legal responsibilities of education providers and the role of the SEN Coordinator. Training also explores the principles of inclusion, equality, early identification and effective support planning for children with additional needs.

Assessment & Early Intervention

Training focuses on recognising Special Educational Needs at an early stage and implementing effective intervention strategies. Learners will understand the Graduated Approach, assess individual needs, plan appropriate support, review progress and work collaboratively with practitioners, parents, carers and external agencies to improve educational outcomes.

SEN Coordination & Support

Learners will develop the knowledge required to undertake the responsibilities of a SEN Coordinator, including supporting colleagues, coordinating SEND provision, maintaining records, contributing to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHC), promoting partnership working and ensuring children receive appropriate support throughout their educational journey.

Professional Practice

Learners will develop the professional knowledge required to promote inclusive practice, evaluate their own professional development, work effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to high-quality SEND provision that supports positive outcomes for children with additional educational needs and disabilities.

Awarding Body

VTCT Skills

Qualification Level

Level 3 Award

Product Code

ET3A2

Course Structure

This qualification consists of 1 Mandatory Unit.

Mandatory Units

• Principles of a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator

Assessment Methods

Assessment is carried out through:

• Portfolio of Evidence
• Internal Assessment
• External Quality Assurance

Entry Requirement

There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this qualification. However, centres must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain evidence for the qualification in the workplace.

Duration

This qualification consists of 89 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and 110 Total Qualification Time (TQT).

Costs

The cost of the course is £650.00, plus a £150 registration fee.

Qualification Awarded

Upon successful completion of all required assessments and portfolio evidence, learners will receive the VTCT Skills Level 3 Award in the Principles of a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator.

Career Opportunity

Successful learners may progress to:

• Early Years Practitioner
• Teaching Assistant
• SEN Support Practitioner
• Nursery Practitioner
• Learning Support Assistant
• SEN Coordinator (subject to employer requirements)
• Progression to Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
• Progression to Level 3 Diploma for the Children & Young People’s Workforce

KIT Required

Learners must attend all training sessions in professional attire appropriate to the training environment, consisting of a tunic (where applicable), black trousers and closed-toe shoes.

T&C

Course fees are non-refundable once enrolment has been confirmed. The VTCT qualification certificate will only be issued after successful completion of all required assessments and portfolio evidence in accordance with VTCT Skills assessment requirements