SENCO Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Most SENCO interviews in the UK follow a pattern, and knowing it beats guessing. Below are eight questions from our bank of 25, each with a note on what the interviewer is really after.

Eight SENCO interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. What are the statutory responsibilities of a SENCO under the SEND Code of Practice?

Why they ask: It checks whether the candidate understands the legal basis of the role.

2. Can you explain the EHC needs assessment process and statutory timescales, and your role in it?

Why they ask: EHC process management is a central SENCO task and mistakes have legal consequences.

3. How is SEN provision funded in a mainstream school, and how do you manage the budget?

Why they ask: Resource allocation is a core responsibility and financial literacy is expected.

4. A parent tells you they are considering a tribunal because the school hasn't provided what is in their child's EHCP. How do you respond?

Why they ask: It tests statutory knowledge, relationship management and willingness to put things right.

5. What must be included in a school's SEN information report, and how do you keep it current?

Why they ask: It tests knowledge of publication duties that Ofsted and parents scrutinise.

6. How do you identify pupils with SEN early and decide who goes on the SEN register?

Why they ask: Fair, consistent identification is crucial and over-identification is a known issue.

7. Tell me about a time you led change in SEN provision and improved outcomes.

Why they ask: Senior leaders want evidence of strategic leadership, not just casework.

8. Why do you want to be a SENCO, and what do you think makes an effective one?

Why they ask: They need to see commitment to the strategic and relational demands of the role.

A sample answer to question 1

What are the statutory responsibilities of a SENCO under the SEND Code of Practice?

The SENCO has day-to-day responsibility for operating the school's SEN policy and coordinating provision for pupils with SEN, including those with EHC plans. That includes advising on the graduated approach, supporting teachers to identify and meet needs, maintaining the SEN register and records, and liaising with parents, external agencies, the local authority and other schools. The SENCO contributes to the strategic development of SEN provision with the headteacher and governors, helps manage the SEN budget and ensures statutory duties, such as publishing the SEN information report and complying with the Equality Act, are met. They must be a qualified teacher and, if new to the role, gain the National Award for SEN Coordination within three years of appointment. I would see my role as leading a whole-school approach, not simply managing a caseload.

Common mistake to avoid: Describing only casework; missing statutory duties

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 25 questions are on the SENCO interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.