Updated: 08/08/25
If you are preparing for an interview for a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) role, it is essential to demonstrate a deep understanding of inclusive practice, statutory responsibilities, collaborative leadership, and the ability to drive high-quality provision for pupils with SEND.
The questions below are designed to assess a candidate’s ability to lead on SEND provision, support student progress, engage families, and work effectively with colleagues and external professionals.
Key Interview Questions for SENDCo Candidates
1. Supporting Students with SEND in the Classroom
- How do you work with teachers and support staff to ensure that pupils with SEND are effectively included and supported in the classroom?
2. Collaboration with External Agencies
- Can you give an example of how you have worked collaboratively with an external agency—such as a speech and language therapist, CAMHS, or occupational therapist—to support a pupil’s needs?
3. Inclusive Practice and Whole-School Policies
- How do you ensure that whole-school policies, procedures, and culture are inclusive and reflect best practice for supporting pupils with SEND?
4. Engaging with Parents and Carers
- What strategies do you use to build positive partnerships with parents and carers of pupils with SEND?
- How do you ensure they are kept informed and involved in the decision-making process?
5. Monitoring and Evaluating SEND Provision
- What systems do you use to evaluate the quality and impact of SEND provision across the school?
- How do you use this data to inform improvements and report to governors or SLT?
6. Supporting Key Transitions
- How do you support pupils with SEND as they transition between key stages—for example, from Year 6 to Year 7, or from school to further education or employment?
7. Problem-Solving and Leadership
- Describe a challenging situation you have encountered related to SEND provision. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
8. Professional Development and Best Practice
- What recent training or professional learning have you undertaken related to SEND?
- How do you stay up to date with national developments, statutory guidance, and evidence-based strategies in SEND?
Resources for SENDCos
Inclusion and SEND Compliance
Engaging with Parents and Supporting Transitions
Professional Development and Training
School Improvement and Strategic Planning
For further SEND support and professional development, explore:
Final Thoughts
The SENDCo role is both strategic and pastoral, requiring a detailed knowledge of statutory responsibilities, a commitment to inclusive education, and the leadership capacity to influence practice at every level. These questions are designed to help interview panels explore a candidate’s depth of understanding and readiness to lead SEND provision in line with current expectations.
For further guidance, CPD opportunities, and downloadable leadership resources, visit:
HeadteacherChat: Resources for School Leaders
MasterClasses for School Leaders