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Sunningdale SEN Hub is offering Early Years Practitioners and Teaching Assistants a chance to join our Higher Level Communication Practitioner (HLCP) programme starting Autumn 2026.

Event Details

This SENhub-led programme will offer you:

· Participation in Elklan Training’s HLCP programme

· Face-to-face seminars as part of the programme

· A local network of support during the programme

· An ongoing opportunity to be part of a local HLCP network

What is a HLCP?

The Higher Level Communication Practitioner (HLCP) is a new national award for teaching assistants and early years practitioners across all educational settings. This award recognises their role in supporting children and young people with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN), coordinating with colleagues, and linking with local SLCN and SaLT services.

Why Do We Need a HLCP?

With increasing levels of SLCN, there’s a growing need for high-quality support in educational settings. The HLCP role provides a recognised point of contact for speech and language therapists and a source of support for colleagues in the setting or school, ensuring consistent and competent support for children’s speech, language and communication development needs across the whole setting. This initiative aligns with the SEND and AP Improvement Plan to ensure well-trained TAs can specialise in speech and language interventions.

What is the Qualification?

The HLCP is a Level 4 award accredited by OCN London, based on the Speech, Language and Communication Framework (SLCF). It includes four units: two on knowledge and two on practical application. The qualification

is gained through e-learning, webinars, an individual tutorial, and a final virtual observation assessment.

How Will the Qualification Be Gained?

Candidates must have GCSE grades 9-4 in English and Maths (or equivalent), and support from their headteacher or manager and SENCO and they must be in a role supporting learners with SLCN.

(Having an SLCN-based qualification is an advantage, but applicants with the relevant SLCN experience may be given access to the online e-learning sessions to support their use of the Communication Chain.)

The process includes:

· Four group seminars held at the SENhub at Sunningdale School, Sunderland

· Post seminar networks sharing good practice

· One individual tutorial

· An e-portfolio of evidence

· An in person or virtual final observation and assessment

The award is typically completed within one academic year.

The cost per HLCP is £760

Find out more:

Visit HLCP – Higher Level Communication Practitioner | Elklan Training Ltd

To apply for this SENhub course please follow this link: https://www.elklan.co.uk/Apply/learners?b=ae43de77


Tickets

Event Time:

13 October at 9:30 am

Event Location:

Online


Event Details

Date:

13 October at 9:30 am

Additional Dates:

14th October 2026

25th November 2026

3rd February 2027

17th March 2027

Location:

Online

Cost:
Tickets Remaining:

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