A SENCO's Guide to the Code of Practice is a clear, practical, and highly accessible handbook designed for SENCOs, school leaders, and SEND practitioners working across early years, primary, secondary, and post-16 education.
This comprehensive guide explains the SEND Code of Practice (2015) in plain English, helping professionals understand their statutory duties and implement them confidently in everyday school practice.
The book breaks down each major area of the Code-including assessment, SEN Support, EHCP processes, joint working, funding responsibilities, and annual reviews-into manageable, real-world guidance.
With step-by-step explanations, practical templates, leadership advice, and actionable strategies, this guide supports SENCOs to develop effective provision, meet legal requirements, and improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
Key topics covered include:
Understanding statutory duties under the SEND Code of PracticeHigh-quality teaching, graduated response, and SEN SupportEvidence gathering and effective provision mappingWorking with parents, carers, local authorities, and professionalsPreparing for inspections and demonstrating impactManaging EHCP processes, including assessments, provision, and reviewsLeadership expectations for SENCOs and strategic SEND developmentWritten in a clear and supportive style, this handbook serves as a daily reference guide and a long-term professional resource for anyone responsible for SEND in schools.