How to Arrange a Meeting with a Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO) in Secondary Schools

Thank you for your question. The process of arranging a meeting with a Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO) in a secondary school is relatively straightforward, but it's important to follow some key steps to ensure that you and your child receive the best support.

Initial Contact and Meeting Request

SENCOs are key figures in schools, working closely with parents and carers to ensure that special educational needs (SEN) are appropriately addressed. If you need to schedule a meeting, the simplest approach is to contact the school directly. This can be done by:

Ringing the school office and speaking to the secretary or administrative staff to request the meeting. Mentioning your preferred timing, such as after school, to save on back-and-forth emails or calls. Providing your availability explicitly to simplify the scheduling process.

Tip: If you're unsure about timing, it’s often best to check with the school to see what works best for them. Typical meeting times include evenings or weekends to fit around school hours.

Companionship and Documentation

It’s a good idea to bring a friend or family member to the meeting for support and to ensure that your concerns and agreements are properly documented. It’s essential to take notes during the meeting and to confirm any proposed actions. Here are some tips:

Write down all discussions and agreements during the meeting. Have someone read back what has been written to confirm that everyone agrees on the key points.

Alternative Routes for Support

If your initial attempts to arrange the meeting are unsuccessful, there are other resources available:

Parent Partnership Office: If the school does not respond, you can contact your local Parent Partnership office. You can find these by searching 'parent partnership [local council]' online. PP offices are designed to advocate for parents and provide guidance. IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice): If you are still unsatisfied, IPSEA is a highly recommended resource. They are dedicated to advocating for parents and ensuring that all necessary meetings take place. IPSEA can help you navigate the process and provide additional support.

In summary, arranging a meeting with a SENCO involves:

Contacting the school directly. Mentioning your preferred timing and availability. Possibly including a friend or family member to support the meeting process. Documenting key points discussed and agreed upon. Exploring alternative routes for support if needed.

We hope this information helps you to organize an effective and productive meeting with the SENCO. Best of luck!