Advice on moving into a SENCO role without the formal qualification

[PinoPinguino]

Hi,

I am a qualified teacher with strong SEND experience across a range of educational contexts i.e mainstream, specialist and FE.
I have some questions that you may be able to help with and I look forward to hearing all of your responses.

Firstly, I am interested in becoming a SENCO. Whilst I teach SEND students and have tons of teaching experience, I don't have the opportunity to shadow any SENCO's. I have completed relevant CPD and qualifications for this role but I do not have the NPQ for SENCO or NASENCO.

I have applied for a few roles this year such as SENCO, Deputy/Assistant SENCO and have not always been shortlisted for interview. When I have been shortlisted for interview, I have been unsuccessful.

Feedback has been around offering the job to someone who is a better fit for the team, or they want someone to immediately run with things and focus less on developing provision or the role has been offered to someone already doing the role. Am I wasting my time?

Secondly, I am waiting to hear if I have been shortlisted for another position and the closing date was early-mid August. The role was readvertised but I didn't apply the first time around. The setting sound like they are keen to appoint as noone is currently in post. However, although I do not meet the essential qualification criteria, I have completed a different qual at a similar level with some crossover/relevance. How likely is it that I will secure an interview if my application highlights competence/experience? How long would you leave it before you chase up?

I'd really appreciate your thoughts.
PP

You might get more replies on the Staffroom board.
Expect you’ve read this?

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mandatory-qualification-for-sencos/transition-to-national-professional-qualification-for-special-educational-needs-co-ordinators

Did you ask for clarification on “ better fit for the team” Nothing wrong with running things as they are as you need to see how things are managed in school before making changes.
Have you been “ revising” on sites like IPSEA or SEN jungle?
Worth giving the job a shot. Have you been looking around the schools? Have you got lots of experience working with parents of pupils with SEN? Running EHCP reviews?
Good luck.

Hi thanks,
I'm new to this so will pop across to staffroom board, thanks for the tip.
Yes I've sat in on a few EHCP reviews and have lots of experience working with parents of SEND children. Thanks for the recommendation.