How new government-funded training can help you spot and support SEND in your setting

Best Practice Network (BPN) has been awarded a new Department for Education contract to deliver accredited Early Years Special Educational Needs Coordinator (EY SENCO) training to settings across England from 2026. This offers 9,500 training places to practitioners in group-based or PVI early years settings, and childminders.

In this webinar, BPN will provide details about the course, and together with a panel of early education experts, discuss more broadly how early years practitioners can identify and support children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND). The session aims to give participants practical tools and suggestions that will help in day-to-day practice, as well as in-depth information about the EY SENCO training on offer.

This is a great opportunity for all in the sector, as the number of children being identified with SEND is rising. According to the DfE’s December 2025 Survey of Childcare and Early Years Providers, at least one child with SEND is being supported within 84% of school-based providers, within 90% of group-based providers, and among 23% of childminders.


Best Practice Network

Best Practice Network is the UK’s largest provider of early years apprenticeships and the leading provider of Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT). It recently trained thousands of early years SENCOs, demonstrating its commitment to raising standards in the sector. With over 20 years of experience, it works closely with nurseries and nursery chains to deliver high-quality training that enhances staff expertise and supports career progression. Its programmes are designed to develop skilled practitioners who create outstanding learning environments for young children. www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years