1600 new SNA posts announced in Budget 2025
Key Facts
Please note this programme is not on the CAO and learners should apply directly to Chevron College
Why choose this QQI Level 5 & 6 SNA Courses
Our level 5 & 6 Special Needs Assistant (QQI SNA course) is a QQI-accredited distance learning course. After successfully completing this course you will be qualified to work as a special needs assistant in a primary and secondary school, with children with special educational needs.
How does the online course work
Once enrolled, you will receive an email containing your log in details for your online learning platform to start your course. Before your modules are released, you will be set up on a Chevron College student email address and will need to complete a student support module which will give you an overview on topics such as IT skills, Assistive technology, navigate your way through the online learning platform, how to submit your assignments online, study skills, goals, mindfulness, academic writing skills, Harvard referencing and supports available at Chevron College. All course materials such as notes, assignment briefs, Garda vetting and insurance documents are contained within the online learning platform. No exams are required as all your course work will be continuous assessment. Each week you will be provided with course content to study in your own time and pace. Deadlines will be in place to submit your assignments. 2 scheduled virtual online evening webinars will be required to attend for each module throughout your course. Webinars are also recorded if you cannot attend.
Tutor Support
You can contact your tutor by email, request a call back and for that extra peace of mind, obtain feedback on your assignments. Your tutor is available Monday to Friday 9-5:30pm.
If students are struggling to understand weekly content they can post a question to the support forum and their lecturer will post a response to their query. Lecturers also have Open Zoom meetings each week so students can pop in to have a chat about module content if they so wish.
The Studies Advisor is available to support students with areas including academic writing, referencing skills and to develop a realistic study schedule for each module.
During Professional Practice Placement students will be supported by both their Chevron Supervisor and Placement Mentor.
Protection for learners
In compliance with Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 Part 6, where Chevron College offers training programmes of 3 months duration or more, Learner Protection cover is in place via relevant financial product, should Chevron College cease to provide QQI programmes before learners have completed awards.
Course modules
Special Needs Assisting Module
Learning Outcomes
- Explore the role and responsibilities of the Special Needs Assistant
- Examine the qualities and skills of an effective Special Needs Assistant
- Examine relevant legislation in relation to disability
- Explore the rights of children with disabilities in relation to personal autonomy, participation and decision making
- Relate effectively and appropriately to children who present with additional needs
- Use care routines in feeding, toileting and general hygiene
- Maintain appropriate relationships with children parents, primary carers, teachers and other members of the multidisciplinary team
- Work effectively with children who present with disabilities under the direction of the classroom teacher
- Assist children with disabilities in a range of activities, ensuring equality of opportunity through working in a safe and professional manner
- Reflect on personal practice working with children, their parents or guardians and colleagues ensuring that children’s individuality is promoted and that their needs are met
Assessment Method
- Skills Demonstration 60%
- Learner Record 40%
Children With Additional Needs Module
Learning Outcomes
- Explore the history of special needs in Ireland
- Examine the Legislation and Policy development relating to children with additional needs
- Discuss strategies to ensure that a strong focus on play/recreation remains a core principle and a distinguishing characteristic of school age childcare settings
- Outline a range of special needs conditions and impairments relating to children
- Discuss a range of roles, responsibilities and support services available to children with additional needs
- Use a range of approaches in interactions with children with special needs
- Apply good practice with children with additional needs
- Plan developmentally appropriate activities mindful of the safety, welfare and well being of all children
- Learn to take responsibility for own learning within a multidisciplinary team evaluating processes which lead to co-operation and effective communication within the team
- Evaluate own practice to inform understanding relating to children with special needs, leading to an awareness of social, ethical and legal issues in relation to the education and care
Assessment Method
- Project One: 50%
- Project Two: 50%
Level 6 Special Needs Assisting Module
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate the provision of education for people with special educational needs with reference to current legislation
- Assess the various educational options available in Ireland for people with special educational needs
- Examine relevant theories, skills and processes relevant to curriculum implementation
- Explore the differences between integration and inclusion
- Organise learning opportunities in order to promote independence and responsibility
- Evaluate the importance of the multidisciplinary team in devising Individual Education Plans
- Analyse skills that can be used to aid the teacher in the administration of the national curriculum
- Assess interventions and behaviour management techniques that may be used in the learning environment
- Manage meaningful activities that are suited to peoples needs and connect with their experiences and interests in the learning environment
- Identify strategies for dealing with stressors within the work place
- Provide assistance in the provision of education and care for individuals that present with special educational needs
- Reflect on own attitudes, values , beliefs and assumptions in relation to working with and on behalf of people who present with disabilities
Assessment Method
- Project 50%
- Skills Demonstration 50%
Who should enrol?
The Level 5 & 6 Special Needs Assistant course (QQI SNA courses) will cater for a variety of adult learners ranging from school leavers with no previous experience in the ECCE sector to more mature adults with relevant life or work experience. Some of the latter will have previously had some education and training in childcare. More mature adults will frequently be seeking new career opportunities, be working in the home or currently working in the childcare sector. These will tend to opt for the part-time learning route to achieving the award. The course will be open to both male and female learners.
Entry Requirements
No particular skills, knowledge or competence will be required of you for successful completion of this course. However you will be expected to have a minimum of Level 4 Certificate standard of education or equivalent together with a strong interest in the provision of quality care and education for children, this is not mandatory. It is essential that you have competence in written and spoken English, along with computer literacy skills.Download English exam requirements
Work Experience
You are required to obtain a minimum of 20 hours work experience per module with students or children with Special Educational Needs. The 60hrs of work experience are to be completed in a setting of age group 0-6 year olds.
Fees
Payment in full:
€750
.
Instalment plans:
Option 1:
Chevron instalments plan: 12 consecutive monthly instalments of €64 each month, if this does not suit call us to arrange a tailored payment plan to suit your budget
How to enrol?
Enrolment and payment are completed over the phone. To secure your place, please complete Click Enrol in the following chat: