Apprenticeships

Supporting your future

Apply

Our next course starts on 2nd February 2027, applications will open on  2nd November

For more information please contact Adult Education at Itchen: 023 8044 6156 acet@itchen.ac.uk

Evening: Tuesday

Start Date: 2/2/2027

End Date: 22/6/2027

Time: 6pm – 9pm

Venue: Itchen College, Middle Road, Bitterne, SO19 7TB

Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Special Educational Needs

The Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Special Educational Needs is aimed at professionals working in education or carrying out a caring role in nursery nursing, teaching assistance, childcare or play work and are looking to develop knowledge and understanding of Special Educational Needs to progress within the sector as part of a new or existing role.

Applicants are expected to have experience working with children, ideally in a current role within the education sector.

(See Key Course Information for more details)
Apply Now
Course Content:

You will study a range of units that may include:

  • Understanding the principles of Special Educational Needs
  • Legislation and guidance relating to SEN
  • Inclusive practice and removing barriers to learning
  • Supporting individuals with specific needs (e.g. autism, ADHD, dyslexia)
  • Working collaboratively with parents, carers, and professionals
Key Course Information

Who is this course for?

  • Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) working in schools, nurseries or other educational settings who are responsible for coordinating support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
  • Teaching assistants and learning support assistants working in schools.

  • Nursery and childcare practitioners supporting children’s learning and development.

  • Early Years practitioners working in nurseries, preschools or other childcare settings.

  • Playworkers and other childcare professionals who support children with additional needs.

  • People currently working with children who want to develop their understanding of SEN and progress in their existing role or into a new role within the sector.

Delivery Mode: Classroom-based (evening course)

Assessment: Assessment is through a portfolio of evidence, which will include written assignments, case studies and reflective accounts.

Home Study Requirements: You will need to study for approximately 6 hours per week at home

Awarding Body: NCFE

Entry Requirements:

  • A good level of English (Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE Grade C/4 or above is recommended)
  • A keen interest in education and supporting learners with additional needs
  • No prior SEN experience required, though relevant work/voluntary experience is beneficial

Why Study With Us?

  • Learn from experienced tutors with SEN expertise
  • Supportive learning environment and small class sizes
  • Pathway to career progression in education and SEN support
Fees and Funding

Fees and Funding:

This course may be fully funded depending on your personal circumstances

 

Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs (formerly the National Skills Fund)

    • The Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Special Educational Needs is funded through the Free Courses for Jobs scheme, subject to eligibility criteria.
    • Learners earning above the income threshold of £26,800 will be required to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to fund the course, subject to eligibility.

 

 For more information visit: www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.

 

 

Additional fees:

    • There is a £10 non-refundable fee, which provides £11 printing credit to use in college.

 

 

 

 

Apply now for your Adult Learning Course

Lets Go