"Every SENCO Leads": One SEND Consultant's Journey Through Harris.

We sat down with Mariam, one of Harris Federation's newly appointed SEND Consultants, to hear about her journey through the organisation — from Teacher of Mathematics to Federation-level leader.

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A voice at the table

"During my role as SENDCo, I was able to exercise my voice within the school as an advocate and leader of SEND provision. My leadership team strongly supported me in ensuring that all aspects of provision — ranging from behaviour policies to curriculum design — were critically evaluated through the lens of supporting positive outcomes and educational experiences for SEND pupils. Feeling both heard and professionally trusted enhanced my confidence in leading sustainable change and implementing evidence-informed improvements.

I also worked collaboratively as part of a cross-academy SENDCo network over several years. This collective partnership facilitated the sharing of effective practice, professional reflection, and the co-construction of resources that were subsequently disseminated across multiple academies."

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Understanding the role

"The role of the SENDCo is inherently complex and is often insufficiently understood due to the breadth of statutory responsibilities and legislative requirements that underpin the role. I view it as a professional responsibility of the SENDCo not only to fulfil these statutory duties, but to also to actively educate senior leadership teams regarding the scope, demands, and strategic significance of SEND provision.

In practice, I have found that my role has been both understood and valued by leadership because of this open, dialogic approach. Senior leaders have demonstrated a genuine willingness to engage with SEND-related learning, respond constructively to professional advice and adapt practice accordingly."

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Ownership of SEND strategy

"I hold a high degree of ownership over the SEND strategy within my academy, both operationally and strategically. I play a central role in shaping priorities, allocating resources, and influencing whole-school practices so that SEND strategy is embedded within wider school improvement planning. Whilst I have this high level of ownership, I also advocate for ALL members of staff to be knowledgeable in SEND and have a shared responsibility in supporting SEND needs."

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What "every SENCO leads" really means

"To me, the statement 'every SENCO leads' is an acknowledgement that the role of a SENDCo extends far beyond operational compliance or case management. It positions the SENDCo as a system leader who shapes culture, influences practice, and advocates relentlessly for equity and inclusion across the academy.

In practice, this means leading through influence rather than hierarchy. Leadership in this sense is evident in the ability to challenge constructively, use data to drive improvement, and ensure that statutory responsibilities translate into meaningful outcomes for pupils."

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Support that makes the role sustainable

"When I commenced my role as SENDCo, I was not professionally isolated. I was extremely well supported through access to an experienced SEND consultant who provided weekly guidance and mentoring, supporting the development of effective and evidence-informed practice. This structured support was instrumental in strengthening my confidence, professional knowledge, and leadership capability during the early stages of my role.

In addition to individual consultancy, I have benefited from participation in the Harris SENDCo network, which provides ongoing professional development, targeted training, and a collaborative forum for SENDCos to share best practice. This culture of professional collaboration reinforces the Harris commitment to inclusive excellence."

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A career that has grown with ambition

"When I joined Harris as a Teacher of Mathematics and Deputy SENDCo, I held a clear long-term ambition to progress into a consultancy role. During my time at Harris, I progressed from Deputy SENDCo to SENDCo, then into the role of Assistant Principal, and I am now a newly appointed SEND Consultant within the Federation.

I feel that my professional journey is testament to the culture of talent development within Harris, where ambition is both recognised and actively nurtured. Each role provided me with opportunities to deepen my strategic understanding of SEND and expand my leadership influence."

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A message for SENCOs who are struggling

"To a SENDCo outside of the Harris network who is experiencing burnout or feels undervalued, I would first offer reassurance and validation. Feeling overwhelmed or depleted is not a reflection of professional capability, but rather of the demands placed upon the role.

Within Harris, SENDCos are supported through clear leadership pathways, access to experienced consultants, professional networks, and a culture that explicitly values inclusion. SENDCos are listened to, developed and supported to lead with confidence.

Above all, I would remind them that their expertise matters, their advocacy makes a difference — and with the right environment, the SENDCo role can be both impactful and professionally sustaining."