Should I Start a Special Needs Assisting Module?

Here is why the answer is yes!

Why Train as a Special Needs Assistant in Ireland in 2025

Huge Growth in Funding & Roles

• The Government education budget for 2025 is a record €10.5 billion, with €2.9 billion pledged for special education—an increase of over 6% on 2024 €2.6 billion levels
• Budget 2025 includes 1,600 new SNA posts, bringing the national total to over 23,000 SNAs—up from around 21,700 in 2024
• Along with SNA Roles, Special educational teacher positions have also increased by 768 roles, supporting the growing infrastructure for inclusion

Massive Demand, Real Opportunity

• Demand for SNAs is soaring across mainstream and special education settings, with more special classes opening and support plans underway
• The increasing prevalence of autism and complex learning needs—estimated at 1 in 20 children—is adding to that demand

Competitive, Caring Career with Purpose

• SNAs in Ireland start on salaries around €27,000, and experienced roles can pay up to €44,000+ per year
• You’ll do meaningful work: supporting children with additional needs, helping them participate fully in school life. Many SNAs cite it as deeply rewarding, even if underpaid at times

Career Pathway & Stability

• The role is increasingly seen as stepping-stone into other education or care professions like teaching or special care roles.
• Budget 2025 introduces an SNA Redeployment Scheme, improving job security by enabling transfers between schools that need assistants more urgently .

Government Committed to Expansion

• Notably since 2020, special education funding has jumped from €1.9 billion to nearly €2.9 billion, a 52% increase in five years.
• Similarly, in addition to more SNA posts, there will be hundreds of expanded special class and special school places in 2025.

6. Fast Training – Get to Work Sooner

• With QQI Level 5 (or combined Level 5 & 6), you can be trained and ready in as little as 12 weeks, entering the workforce quickly.
• Training is accessible and often flexible—online or part-time—so you can study around your life commitments.

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In Summary

• Massive demand at national level: over 23,000 posts, with 1,600 new roles this year.
• Growing investment, making special education a policy priority.
• Good pay, meaningful impact, and increasing job security through redeployment schemes.
• Fast entry into work with genuine qualifications and flexibility.

If you want a stable, caring career—and to help children succeed—training as an SNA in Ireland in 2025 is a smart and timely choice.

Who should train as an SNA?

People who care
If you’re kind, patient, and want to help children feel included and supported, this role is for you.

Career changers
Looking for more meaningful work? SNA jobs offer purpose and the chance to make a real difference every day.

Parents returning to work
School-friendly hours, job security, and the chance to put your experience with children to good use.

School leavers or early career starters
A great first step into education, special needs, or care work—with strong demand for qualified SNAs.

Those with care or childcare experience
Already working with children or vulnerable people? This is a natural next move.

Anyone with lived experience
If you’ve supported a child with additional needs at home or in your community, you bring valuable insight to the classroom.

You don’t need teaching experience—just the right attitude and a willingness to learn. The rest comes with training.

Do I Need a Qualification to Be an SNA?

Technically, the Department of Education only requires a Level 3 qualification (or equivalent).
But in reality, most schools look for at least a QQI Level 5 in Special Needs Assisting—and many prefer if you also have Level 6.

Why Do Both Level 5 & 6?

✔️ You’ll have a better chance of getting hired – many roles now ask for both
✔️ Feel more confident – Level 6 builds on Level 5 and prepares you for real classroom situations
✔️ Shows you’re committed – going beyond the minimum really stands out to employers
✔️ Better long-term options – it can lead to more specialised roles or further study down the line

In short:
You don’t have to do Level 5 and 6 — but it makes a big difference if you do and makes it easier to gain employment!

Why Should You Choose Aspire Training?

Recognised Qualifications
Our course leads to QQI Level 5 & 6 Special Needs Assisting awards—qualifications that are widely recognised and valued by schools across Ireland.

Two Qualifications in One
You’ll complete both Level 5 and Level 6 in one go—saving time, money, and getting you ready for work more quickly.

Taught by Real Experts
Our tutors have hands-on experience as SNAs and educators. They understand the realities of the role and bring that knowledge into the classroom.

Learn Around Your Life
The course is delivered one evening per week, with flexible learning options that fit around work, family, or other commitments. You don’t need to put your life on hold to study.

Support That’s Actually Supportive
We’re here to help—not just at the start, but all the way through. You will have an expert tutor for your twelve sessions, but along with this, You’ll have friendly, responsive support whenever you need it, from an office team that includes experienced education staff and two qualified Special Needs Assistants.

Focused on Your Future
For this reason, whether you’re starting fresh or looking to upskill, this course gives you the tools, confidence, and qualification to step into a rewarding role in education.

Quick, Practical, and Career-Ready
In just 12 weeks, you’ll be qualified and ready to apply for SNA positions or continue your learning journey.

In short, when you train with Aspire, you’re not just getting a certificate—you’re building something meaningful for yourself and for the children you’ll support.

Check out our upcoming dates here

Questions, Call us anytime on 0449341551, or email info@aspiretraining.ie