[SENco-forum] Select Committee Report

I am way ahead of them having started my Foundation Degree in Learning
Support this year just so that I can be a SENCO.

I do not want to be a teacher - I have never wanted to be a 30 per class
teacher -nor do I see that it is a necessity for a SENco -essentially an
unbiased and equal advocate for the needs of child, parent and school.  I
tutor EFL and SpLD 1:1 or small group,  and am as capable of reading and
understanding changing government policy and implementing it as the next
person.

Anyhow....This new requirement for SENco's to be teachers is fine as long as
they continue with the other bit of the recommendations that says that
SENco's need more training  and that ITT should have more SEN training.  As
an SpLD tutor I can go into school to assess for exams or SpLD where the
SENco cannot due to there being no training available and despite having a
cupboard full of great tools.  I can make suggestions, worksheets and
basically  work for free (!) or as a ?5 per hour TA ,but not be employed as
a peripatetic teacher for a reasonable wage.

Balance is required as ever.  Suitable SEN training & PGCE eventually for
SENco's but flexibility for the next 10 years or so please while those in
charge at DFES get their act together and we reach Nirvana.

Sharon

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