GovWire

This statutory code contains:

• details of legal requirements that you must follow without exception
• statutory guidance that you must follow by law unless theres a good reason not to

It explains the duties of local authorities, health bodies, schools and colleges to provide for those with special educational needs under part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014.

The code, which applies to England, is for:

• headteachers and principals
• governing bodies
• school and college staff
• special educational needs (SEN) co-ordinators
• early years providers
• other education settings
• local authorities
• health and social services staff

Other SEND guides are also available.

Mandatory qualification for SENCOs

On 1 September 2024 the NPQ for SENCOs replaced the NASENCO as the mandatory qualification for SENCOs .

Schools and SENCOs should consult the Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014 to ensure they enrol on the relevant qualification.

For more information see Mandatory qualification for SENCOs.