Early Years SENCo programme captures imaginations The launch of Best Practice Network’s Early Years SENCo programme caught the sector’s imagination when it was launched in summer 2022. The programme had more than 5,000 applications, far exceeding places available at that time. The programme is designed to meet the need of a sector that is acutely aware of increasing demands for specialist support. “Pre-school children, starved of professionally led learning and development during pandemic lockdowns, are facing language and development gaps that they need to make up,” says Sian Marsh, BPN’s Director of Early Years and ITT.
“Here at Best Practice Network we are leading what I believe is a positive major step on the way towards addressing some of those problems.” The early years SENCo qualification started delivery in October and currently has 423 participants. Evaluations carried out in January 2023 reveal that 90% of participants believed that the training has already had a positive impact on their own CPD and their skill levels. “It has been an amazing opportunity,” said one. “It has really helped to extend my knowledge and confidence in the role. I found the webinars really valuable and have enjoyed networking with others in the role.” Another added:
“I would definitely recommend this training, it’s a great course with brilliant mentors.”
Currently,5,000 governmentfunded places will be available to SENCos working in private, voluntary or independent settings.
9 | Best Practice Network
