6. Classroom Assistant - Special Needs Assistant

This is a one-year specialist course, training students to work as Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) in Primary and Secondary School classrooms. This is a growing area of employment: in 2006 there were over 6,000 SNAs in Ireland. Liberties College has offered courses in the training of SNAs since 1991

Duration

1 Year full-time

Entry

See Entry Requirements.

Please note that vetting by Garda or other police authorities may be required for some placements in this sector. Please read the page on Garda Vetting.

Certification

FETAC Level 5 Award Community Care DCHCC

Progression

See Higher Links Scheme

Principal Areas of Study

- Understanding Special Needs
- Special Needs Assisting
- Arts and Craft for Children
- Human Growth and Development
- Intellectual Disability Studies
- Safety and Health at Work
- Care Provision and Practice
- Exercise and Fitness
- Work Experience

Features of the Course

- Two-day placement each week in classrooms in mainstream education.
- Skills training in teaching English as a new language.
- Training in typical SNA duties
- Assisting children with everyday practical tasks e.g. clothing, feeding, toileting and hygiene
- Educational assistance e.g. helping the child with writing or typing.
- Preparing and tidying the classroom environment
- Assisting during school tours and outings.
- Knowledge of IEPs (Individual Education Plans)


Employment

SNA in Mainstream Education, Day Care Centres, Special Schools.

Number of Places Available

Twenty Two

Application Form

Application Form - Online
Application Form - Print

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