More SNA’s to be hired in 2022 – Train to be an SNA with Progressive College

The Education Budget for 2022 will be €9.2B.

The budget will allow for the creation of 1,165 additional special needs assistants, bringing the overall number to 19,200 at a cost of €12m.

€16m for an additional 980 special education teachers in special classes, special schools and mainstream schools;

An €18m expansion of the Deis programme;

More administrative principals in special schools and mainstream schools with two or more special classes;

More funding for voluntary secondary schools in the free education scheme to equalise school capitation grants at a cost of €2m

The budget book says the education budget aims to increase Deis supports, prioritise supports for children with special needs, reduce the student-teacher ratio and support enhanced literacy.

SNA Courses with Progressive College

The QQI Level 5 SNA Certificate requires students to obtain 30 hours of work placement in order to complete the course. The course covers topics that allow students to work in a variety of primary or secondaryclassroom settings. Here are some of the topics covered by the module:

• The Role of the Special Needs Assistant
• Theories of Learning and Behaviour
• Physical and Intellectual Disabilities
• Communication and Language Disabilities
• Child Protection

Students who complete the course can then seek employment or pursue further education such as the QQI Level 6 Certificate. The QQI Level 6 Certificate allows students to tackle broader issues on learning difficulties and disabilities. Students are required to complete 30 hours of work placement in order to complete the certificate. Topics covered at the Level 6 Certificate includes:

• Equal Opportunities
• Integration and Inclusion
• Irish Legislation – EPSEN Act
• Individual Education Plans (IEP’s)
• General Learning Difficulties

Looking To Start Your Career As An SNA?

If the work of an SNA is something that interests you, our QQI Accredited SNA Courses can help you get a jump start in your career. We have a range of part-time and online courses that can suit your schedule and needs. Our courses are delivered in Dublin and nationwide.

Our Level 5 SNA course covers all necessary and fundamental modules and topics in special needs assisting. Our Level 6 SNA course provides students with a deeper understanding of the different issues surrounding special needs assisting. Our Combined Level 5 & 6 course allows students to benefit from both courses, which makes them stand out when seeking employment.

For more information, give us a call at (01) 488 4300 or send us an email at info@progressivecollege.ie