Level 3 Award for Special Educational Needs Coordinators in Early Years Settings

Become a Confident SENCO and Create Inclusive Learning Environments

Course Overview:

The qualification is structured around two mandatory units, giving you both the theoretical understanding and practical tools needed for SEN coordination in early years settings.

🧩 Unit 1: Roles and Responsibilities of the SENCO in Early Years

Learn how to:

Interpret statutory guidance (such as the SEND Code of Practice)
Understand key policies and frameworks influencing SEN provision
Define and manage the SENCO role in your setting
Coordinate with professionals, families, and external services

🤝 Unit 2: Strategies and Techniques for Supporting Children and Families

You will explore:

Practical approaches to supporting children with a range of SEN and disabilities
Inclusive teaching methods and child-centred support plans
Working in partnership with parents and carers
Creating an inclusive, supportive early years environment

Level 3 Award for Special Educational Needs Coordinators in Early Years Settings

Become a Confident SENCO and Create Inclusive Learning Environments

Key Features:

• 100% Online: Study from anywhere with no classroom attendance required.
• Flexible Learning: Learn at your own pace with live tutor support, ensuring you can balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments.
• Internationally Recognized Qualification: Awarded by NCFE, ICQ and Highfield a reputable awarding bodies.
• No Written Exams: The course is assessed through assignments and practical assessments, including assessor observations, witness testimonies, and learner feedback.
• Comprehensive Support: Get full guidance from experienced tutors who provide feedback throughout your studie

Who Is This Course For?

This course is suitable for:

Early years practitioners, nursery staff, and childminders
Teaching assistants and aspiring SENCOs
Individuals working or volunteering in childcare or education
Career changers interested in education, support work, or social care
Students preparing for further study in childhood, education, or health fields

Course Structure:

This course consists of three mandatory units, totaling 15 credits. You will explore key principles of assessment, learn how to assess both in the workplace and outside, and gain the practical skills to become an effective assessor.
Units Overview:

• Unit 1: Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (5 Credits)
This unit introduces you to the essential assessment principles and methods. You will learn how to plan assessments, make assessment decisions, and provide effective feedback to learners.

• Unit 2: Assessing Occupational Competence in the Work Environment (5 Credits)
Focused on workplace assessments, this unit will teach you how to carry out assessments through observation. You’ll learn how to gather and evaluate evidence, and support learners in demonstrating competence in their roles.

• Unit 3: Assessing Vocational Skills, Knowledge, and Understanding (5 Credits)
This unit covers assessments outside the workplace, such as in the classroom or workshop. You’ll learn to use assignments, projects, and other assessment methods to evaluate vocational skills, knowledge, and understanding.

🌟 Why Choose This Course at Learning Nest?

✔️ Learn at Your Own Pace
✔️ 1:1 Personal Tutor Support
✔️ Live Online Classes
✔️ Fully Accredited NCFE Qualification
✔️ Flexible, Online Learning
✔️ Access for 12 Months

Whether you’re a full-time parent, a working professional, or just prefer a flexible schedule, you can complete this course entirely online and at your own speed. You’ll never feel alone—we provide dedicated tutor support, live virtual sessions, and access to an interactive learning platform.

Entry Requirements:

However, learners must:
• You must be aged 16 or older
• No specific qualifications required
• A good standard of English and access to a computer or mobile device is recommended

💼 Career Pathways and Progression

This qualification opens the door to exciting and meaningful careers in:

Early Years SEN Coordination
Early Years Teaching Support
Childcare Management
Family Support Work
Social Work and Community Services
Nursing or Health Support Work
Primary Teaching (with further qualifications)

💻 Course Delivery Details

Format	100% Online Learning
Study Time	Approx. 37 guided learning hours
Access Duration	12 months from enrolment
Learning Style	Self-paced + live online sessions
Support	1:1 personal tutor + peer community access
Assessment	Internal written tasks (no exams)
Awarding Body	NCFE (Ofqual regulated)

🧑‍🏫 How You’ll Learn

✔️ Self-Paced Online Learning
Access high-quality, interactive materials from your laptop or mobile—any time, anywhere.

✔️ Live Online Classes
Join scheduled live sessions to connect with tutors and other learners, ask questions, and discuss course topics.

✔️ 1:1 Tutor Support
You’ll be assigned a dedicated tutor who will support you throughout your journey, offer personalised feedback, and answer any questions.

✔️ Easy-to-Use Platform
Track your progress, submit assignments, and communicate with your tutor through our user-friendly online learning hub.

🧾 Certification

Upon completion, you will receive the NCFE Level 3 Award for Special Educational Needs Coordinators in Early Years Settings – a nationally recognised certificate that enhances your employability and readiness for further study.

📅 Enrolment & Fees

Start Anytime – Enrolment is open all year round
Flexible Payment Options – Monthly instalments available
Group Bookings & Employer Funding – Contact us for packages

Special Offer: Get 10% off your course fee when you enrol this month!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course officially recognised?
Yes, the course is regulated by Ofqual and awarded by NCFE, a leading UK awarding body.
Do I need any prior experience?
No prior qualifications or experience are needed, though an interest in child development or early years education is helpful.
How do the live classes work?
Live classes are conducted weekly via Zoom or our platform and led by experienced educators. Attendance is optional but encouraged for deeper engagement.

Start Your Journey Toward Inclusive Education Today

Give every child the support they deserve—and advance your career in early years education.

👉 Enrol Now
Learning Nest – Supporting the educators who support every child.
Your learning. Your pace. Your future.