A new training programme has launched in Lincolnshire to strengthen special educational needs support across early years settings, helping nursery practitioners better meet the needs of children with SEND.
Realise, the UK’s leading provider of early years training, is set to deliver a Level 3 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) qualification to almost 300 early years practitioners working across the county. The programme has been designed to equip nursery staff with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to take on the vital role of Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) within their setting.
Supporting Inclusion in the Early Years
The demand for high-quality SEND provision continues to grow, with more children presenting with a wide range of specific and complex needs at an early age. Early years settings play a crucial role in identifying needs, putting the right support in place and working in partnership with families and professionals.
Sarah-Jayne Kidd, Operations Manager for Realise Early Years, said:
“There is a growing number of children presenting with diverse and specific special educational needs.
It’s positive that there are major discussions at the top levels of government about reform for the future, but there is also a need for nurseries to act now.”
Under the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, every nursery must have a designated SENCO. This programme supports settings not only to meet their statutory responsibilities, but also to strengthen their long-term SEND provision by developing additional qualified staff within their teams.
Sarah-Jayne added:
“For a nursery to have another member of the team achieving the qualification can help ensure provision is in place for many years to come, benefiting children, families and the wider workforce.”
Fully Funded, Flexible Learning
The Level 3 qualification is delivered fully online, with training sessions offered flexibly at different times throughout the day to fit around work and personal commitments. The programme is free of charge for eligible learners earning £25,750 or less per year, thanks to funding through Lincolnshire County Council’s Adult Skills Fund (ASF).
The course includes 24 hours of learning across eight structured sessions, combining practical guidance with underpinning knowledge to support confident practice in early years settings.
What the Course Covers
Learners who complete the programme will achieve the Level 3 Technical Specialist in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator in Early Years Settings.
Key areas of learning include:
· Practical strategies and techniques to support children with SEND
· Understanding funding pathways and referral processes
· Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
· The SEND Code of Practice
· Early identification of additional needs
· Working effectively in partnership with parents, carers and professionals
The programme is designed to build capability, confidence and consistency in SEND practice, while supporting inclusive, child-centred environments.
National Expertise, Local Impact
Realise currently supports almost 3,000 active early years learners across the UK, delivering apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps and funded training programmes to staff working for nearly 2,000 employers.
This Lincolnshire initiative builds on Realise’s strong track record of working with local authorities and employers to provide high-quality, accessible training that has a lasting impact on services and communities.
Find Out More
There are specific eligibility requirements to enrol on funded courses in Liverpool, Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.
To find out more about this programme or other early years training opportunities, visit: Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) South and West Yorkshire