Springboard Opportunity Group

What is a SENCO?
Since September 2001 it has been a requirement for all Early Years settings in the private, voluntary and indepedent (PVI) sector, who are registered for the nursery education grant, to appoint a setting-based Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO).

What does a SENCO do?
A SENCO is expected to:

• Be very familiar with the SEN Code of Practice
• Liaise with, advise and work with staff and parents to develop and review educational plans with individual children 
• Ensure that up to date records are kept on children with special needs and oversee these 
• Ensure that there is close liaison with parents on all aspects of SEN provision 
• Support the work of staff and their training by working with them to identify their professional development needs 
• Liaise with outside agencies

For further information on special educational needs or additional contact details please refer to North Somerset's guidance file “Using the Code of Practice for the Early Years”.

If you have questions about the role of the SENCO or would like further support regarding special needs please contact your Area SENCO:

Area SENCO:
Fran Kirkwood
North Somerset Early Years Consultant
fran.kirkwood@n-somerset.gov.uk
or telephone 01934 888888

Joanne Harris
Springboard Manager
jo@springboardweb.org.uk
or telephone 01275 341113

Liz Smith
Springboard Graduate Lead – Clevedon Centre
(for north of county)
liz@springboardweb.org.uk
or telephone 01275 341113

Jacky Turpin
Springboard Graduate Lead – Weston Centre
(for south of county)
jacky@springboardweb.org.uk
or telephone 01934 426165

Becky Peddle
Springboard Playleader – Weston Centre
becky@springboardweb.org.uk
or telephone 01934 426165

Sally White
Springboard Playleader – SouthWeston
sally@springboardweb.org.uk
or telephone 01934 426165