SENCOs (Special Education Needs Coordinators) have a critical role to play in ensuring that children with special educational needs and differences within a school receive the support they need.

SENCOs support the identification of children with SEN by assessing students, identifying needs and developing IEPs (Individual Education Plans). They track and monitor the progress of children and ensure there is high quality teaching and intervention for SEN students. SENCOs work in small groups or individual 1:1 settings. They oversee and support Teacher Aides and provide guidance and support for teachers. SENCOs attend in school special needs meetings and liaise with parents, RTLBs (Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour), SLTs (Speech Language Therapists), OT (Occupational Therapists), other providers, outside agencies and educational psychologists.

Kristen Ferguson is the SENCO at Kaikorai and she works closely with Ms Downie, all teachers and teacher aides in the school to ensure no child is left behind. The following are 4 areas of need for children with SEN. 

• Cognition and Learning
• Communication and Interaction
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health
• Sensory and Physical

Please keep an eye out for additional Special Education articles in the newsletters. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact Kristen at the school. kferguson@kaikorai.schoo.nz

No Child Left Behind ~ karekau he tamaiti i mahue