SNA Combined Programme QQI Level 5 and 6

Special Needs Assisting – QQI Level 5 & 6 Combined Programme

QQI Level 5 Minor Award in Special Needs Assisting (5N1786) + QQI Level 6 Minor Award in Special Needs Assisting (6N1957)


Levels	NFQ Level 5 and Level 6
Duration	12 weeks (6 weeks per level), one 3-hour class a week
Times	Evenings 7–10pm or mornings 10am–1pm
Delivery	Live tutor-led classes
Work experience	40 hours (20 per level)
Fee	€695 combined, or €375 per level
Next intake	October 21st 2026 (evenings) November 6th 2026 (mornings)

Who it’s for

Anyone who wants to work as a Special Needs Assistant in a primary, post-primary or special school
Teachers, childcare workers and supervisors who support children with additional needs
People who want an accredited qualification around work and family

What you’ll learn

How to work effectively as an SNA under the direction of the teacher, as part of a multidisciplinary team, and how to help the children you support become more independent learners.

Level 5 Learning Outcomes

Explore in the role and responsibilities of the SNA
Examine the qualities and skills of an effective SNA
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.

Level 6 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 behavior management techniques that may be used in the learning environment
Manage meaningful activities that are suited to people’s 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.

How it runs

6 tutor-led classes per level, 3 hours each (18 hours per level)
You must attend at least 80% to receive your QQI certificate
Already completed Level 5? You can join the next Level 6 dates directly

Assessments

You will be required to undertake a skills demonstration, learner record and project work.

Work Experience

You need 20 hours per level (40 in total), and you arrange your own placement. If you’re struggling to find one, let us know and we’ll try to help. Please don’t start until the course has begun.

Entry requirements

Aged 16 or over
Fluent English
Relevant work or life experience with children with additional needs is recommended
Basic computer skills: email, Word/Google Docs, sending video files. You’ll need a computer with sound and a working microphone.

Fees and payment

Combined Level 5 & 6: €695, paid in two instalments:

€347.50 deposit when you book, to secure your place
€347.50 due 3 weeks after your start date

Single level: €375 (€187.50 + €187.50)

Pay by bank transfer or card.

Funding: If you receive a Department of Social Protection payment, are on a CE Scheme or are taking part in an activation scheme, you may be eligible for funding. Contact us or your local employment office. [More on funding]

Course materials

All materials are provided online. Optional book: Supporting Special Educational Needs: An SNA Handbook by Eilis Flood and Deirdre Murphy ([Boru Press]).

After the course

You’ll hold QQI Level 5 and Level 6 minor awards in Special Needs Assisting
The credits count towards the QQI Major Awards in Early Childhood Care & Education at Level 5 (5M2009) and Level 6 (6M2007)
You can progress to a Level 7 Certificate in Special Educational Needs for SNAs

Learner information

Find out more about our policies and procedures at our Learner Support Hub.