Description
Book SynopsisThis book equips SENCOs and aspiring SENCOs to engage in high level continuing professional development activity associated with studying for mandatory qualifications, and supports critical and innovative practice and career progression.
Written by a multi-disciplinary team, it embraces sociological, medical and post-modern perspectives. It will be of interest to researchers and practitioners as it also critiques current theory, legislation, policy and research and how these can be transferred into settings. The book considers issues that SENCo's will experience both in their role and as part of this professional development, identifying the complexity of issues they have to consider and priorities in their role.
A range of pedagogic and interactive features are used to support the development of study skills when working at postgraduate level such as:
- research and literature searching;
- knowledge building and skills development in SENCo;
- the ability to galvanise change in their context including difficult and respectful conversations about SEN provision and
- the development of leadership skills.
This book is unique in its link between the academic and professional dimensions of the mandatory qualification - a bridge between engaging in CPD and practice of the SENCo role.
Trade Review"...a book that is relevant to all SENCOs. The authors and editors have deftly drawn together expertise spanning research, policy and practice in a way that is both relatable and accessible for SENCOs at all stages of their career.
SENCOs often have significant demands on their time, but applying the wisdom shared in this book will undoubtedly save them time as they become more effective in the role. Throughout, the authors emphasise the agency of SENCOs and the critical leadership role they play, not just for those with SEND for inclusion across the entire setting.
Above all, this book acts as a North Star for SENCOs, with its ethical golden thread guiding them to do what is right rather than what is easy. If you are a SENCO, this book should be at the top of your reading list."
-- Professor Adam Boddison, OBE
"The editors/authors of Developing you Expertise as a SENCO have clearly made a great effort to produce an up-to-date text that can be read cover-to-cover or dipped into when a specific aspect of SEN coordination is being evaluated in depth. This has paid off - short, well-designed chapters with case studies, resource information and good quality references allow readers to examine key issues in a manageable way. Well done to everyone involved, editors, chapter authors, and the many SENCo case study contributors."
-- Christopher Robertson * Chair, the SENCo-Forum Advisory Group *
"This is a useful book for SENCOs new to post and those with experience in the role. The chapters cover key aspects of being a SENCO, linking theory and practice throughout. The thread of inclusion runs through each, reminding the reader of how this ongoing journey should underpin all of the work they do. Chapters cover a range of relevant topics, offering a balanced critique on current thinking about SEN and inclusion. Topics are diverse and encourage critical reflection and the development of useful knowledge and skills to enable them to be a successful SENCO, supporting staff and pupils. An informative text which will be an essential resource for SENCOs."
-- Jo Winwood * Programme Lead: Education, Serco UK&E Local Regional Government *
Table of ContentsPart One: Examining the SENCo role
Chapter 1 – Examining the SENCo role
Chapter 2 – SENCo professional identity and development
Chapter 3 - SENCos and inclusive pedagogy
Chapter 4 – The SENCo as leader: speaking up and speaking out
Chapter 5 – SENCos engaging with theory
Part Two: The SENCo at work
Chapter 6 - The SENCo role across age phases
Chapter 7 – Working with children and young people experiencing additional challenges
Chapter 8 – Working with parents
Chapter 9 – Working with other professionals
Chapter 10 – Working with critical reflection on professional practice
Chapter 11 – SENCos using data
Chapter 12 - Evidence based practice to promote advocacy for learners with SEND
