Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether he plans to ensure that the proposed new Leadership SENCo National Professional Qualification will include modules on (a) deaf awareness and (b) support for deaf children.

The introduction of a leadership level National Professional Qualification (NPQ) for special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) remains subject to consultation through the ongoing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Review consultation.

For this reason, we have not yet determined the content of the potential SENCO NPQ. However, as is standard in the development of NPQs, the department will be led by the latest and best available evidence and will draw on the knowledge of sector experts to shape the qualification. This will ensure the qualification provides SENCOs with the knowledge and skills needed to fulfil their statutory duties and ensure the best outcomes for children and young people with SEND.