University of Northampton

What you'll study

This programme focuses on the knowledge, skills and professional practice required to lead inclusion and co-ordinate provision for learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Typical topics and modules include:

• Legislation, policy and frameworks – understanding statutory duties, the graduated approach, Education, Health and Care (EHC) planning processes and current SEND policy.
• Identification and assessment – screening, assessment tools, differentiation, and using evidence to identify needs and track progress.
• Inclusive curriculum and pedagogy – adapting curriculum, differentiation strategies, access arrangements and universal design for learning.
• Leadership and management of inclusion – the operational and strategic aspects of the SENCO role, resource management, developing whole-school inclusion policy and leading change.
• Working with families and multi-agency practice – partnership with parents/carers, collaboration with health, social care and specialist services, and effective referrals.
• Behaviour, wellbeing and mental health – positive behaviour support, trauma-aware practice and approaches to promote emotional wellbeing.
• Professional practice and action research – reflective practice, evidence-informed interventions, evaluation, and a school-based project or portfolio demonstrating impact on pupils' outcomes.

Teaching is typically delivered through a blend of seminars, workshops, online learning and school-based application. Assessment methods commonly include written assignments, professional portfolios, case studies and a practical leadership project rooted in workplace practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised degree and to be practising in an educational setting. Suitable applicants often have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent professional qualifications and experience working with children and young people in schools or alternative provision. Employers' support or confirmation that the applicant will have access to relevant school contexts for the work-based components is usually required. The programme may also consider applicants with substantial relevant experience but without formal qualifications on a case-by-case basis, and candidates whose first language is not English may need to provide evidence of proficiency in English.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into or consolidate roles such as SENCO, inclusion leader, pastoral leader or specialist teacher for additional needs in primary, secondary or special school contexts. The programme also supports career progression to senior leadership roles with responsibility for whole-school inclusion, advisory positions within local authorities or trusts, and specialist support roles in multi-disciplinary teams. Many participants use the qualification as a step towards further professional development, such as a postgraduate diploma or master's in education, special educational needs, or educational leadership.

Why study at University of Northampton

The University of Northampton offers teacher education and SEND provision rooted in close partnerships with local schools and educational settings, ensuring programme content is relevant to current practice. You will learn from tutors with school leadership experience and access applied, workplace-focused learning opportunities that enable immediate transfer of skills. The University emphasises inclusive practice, reflective development and research-informed teaching, and provides a supportive environment for experienced practitioners seeking targeted professional development in SEN coordination and inclusion leadership.