How to Talk to Your Child's SENCO
February 20265 min read
Who the SENCO is and what they do
SENCO stands for Special Educational Needs Coordinator. It is the teacher whose job is to organise the extra help children need at school. Every mainstream school in England must have one. They are the person who can arrange support in the classroom, keep records of how your child is doing, and bring in outside help such as a speech therapist. Think of them as your main point of contact and, ideally, your partner.
Prepare before the meeting
A little planning goes a long way. Before you meet, write down your top three worries and what you would like to happen. Bring examples: a piece of homework that took two hours, a morning that ended in tears, a teacher's comment that worried you. Real moments are easier to act on than general words. Send your points by email beforehand so the SENCO can prepare too, and ask for the meeting to be at a time you can attend.
Stay calm, clear and on the same team
It is easy to feel emotional, and that is fine. Try to start from the idea that you and the SENCO both want your child to do well. Be clear about what is not working, but ask open questions too: what have you tried, what could we try next, when will we review it. Agree on actions before you leave, with names and dates, so it is clear who is doing what.
After the meeting: write it down
Once you are home, send a short, friendly email summing up what was agreed and by when. This is not about catching anyone out. It simply keeps everyone clear and gives you a record. If things do not change, that record helps you take the next step. The Smart Guide can help you write that follow-up email in calm, clear words.
Ready to take the next step?
The Smart Guide walks you through it in plain words, at your own pace, with the right template ready when you need it.