Acorn Training and Sheffield City Council Celebrate Early Years SENCO Graduates
Learners from across Sheffield are celebrating after successfully completing the Level 3 Technical Specialist in Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators in Early Years Settings Award, a bespoke programme developed and delivered through a partnership between Acorn Training and Sheffield City Council, funded through South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA),
Created specifically to meet the needs of Early Years SENCOs working across the region, the programme was designed to strengthen the knowledge, skills and confidence of practitioners responsible for supporting children with additional needs and promoting inclusive practice within their settings.
Throughout the course, learners explored key topics including SEND provision, leadership, working effectively with families and professionals, and strategies to improve outcomes for children. The programme provided a valuable opportunity for practitioners to deepen their understanding of inclusive practice while developing practical approaches that can be applied within their own settings.
Led by Acorn Training trainers Aimee Lovatt and Anna Smith, the programme brought together specialist training and local expertise to create a meaningful learning experience for participants. Contributions from Sheffield City Council colleagues, including Vicky Carr, Lynsey Shaw and Michelle Richford, helped learners gain valuable insight into how SEND support is delivered across the region, enabling them to apply their learning with confidence in their own settings.
A key highlight of the programme was the final presentations, where learners showcased what they had learned and demonstrated how they had already begun implementing new knowledge and approaches within their workplaces. The presentations highlighted tangible improvements to practice and showcased the positive impact participants are making within their settings, helping to strengthen support for children with additional needs and their families.
Delivered at Moorfoot Learning Centre in Sheffield, the programme also provided an opportunity for practitioners to learn from one another, share experiences and build confidence in their roles as SENCOs.
From everyone at Acorn Training, we would like to congratulate all learners on this fantastic achievement. Their dedication to professional development and commitment to supporting children with additional needs has been inspiring to see.
We are proud to work alongside Sheffield City Council to deliver specialist training that helps strengthen inclusive practice and supports better outcomes for children, families and communities across the region. We would also like to thank everyone involved in the programme for their collaboration, expertise and commitment throughout. Together, we are helping to build a stronger network of skilled practitioners who are making a positive difference in early years settings across Sheffield.
Congratulations once again to all learners on completing the programme. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of your work and the difference you will make in the lives of children and families for years to come.
