Experienced SENCOs have a good overview of the skill sets of their team in relation to SEND. In partnership with their team, SENCOs find that it is helpful to:
- Identify staff CPD needs at regular intervals throughout the year (e.g. through CPD audits or questionnaires).
- Protect time to meet with staff on an individual or small group basis, to reflect on practice and to identify any needs or difficulties at the earliest opportunity.
- Create opportunities for peer support and sharing good practice, both within and between settings (e.g. peer observation, workshops or training on specific areas of need, visits to other settings).
- Ensure there is access to training for all staff on SEND and vulnerable groups on a needs-led basis.
Having an overview of staff development and skill sets supports the SENCO in effectively deploying support staff across the setting.