QQI Level 5 and 6 SNA Combined

Special Needs Assistant Training – Combined Level 5 & 6

Qualifications
QQI Level 5 Component Certificate in Special Needs Assisting 5N1786
QQI Level 5 Component Certificate in Children with Additional Needs 5N2396
QQI Level 6 Component Certificate in Special Needs Assisting 6N1957

Course Delivery Modes

On Campus – Study in a classroom environment one evening a week.
Course Fees:  €995

Blended Online – Delivered through live online webinars, pre-recorded lectures, and access to associated reading material.
Course Fees:  €750
Learners will receive tutor support throughout the programme via live sessions, email support, and Moodle access. Sessions are archived for review, allowing learners to study flexibly alongside other commitments.

On Demand – A flexible online approach developed to allow you to learn at your own pace.
Course Fees:  €695

Fully interactive classroom learning with direct tutor support throughout the programme. Learners also receive access to Moodle and course materials to support their studies outside class time.

Aims
This combined SNA course offers learners a comprehensive qualification pathway covering QQI Level 5 Special Needs Assisting, QQI Level 5 Children with Additional Needs, and QQI Level 6 Special Needs Assisting.

Designed for those seeking a broad and progressive route into education and care support roles, this programme develops the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to support children with additional needs in educational settings.

Learners will explore child development and behaviour theories, activities to support physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development, and the role and responsibilities of the Special Needs Assistant. The course also covers multidisciplinary teamwork, professionalism, communication, inclusion, Irish legislation, literacy skills, and the Irish primary and secondary school curriculum.

Entry Requirements

Minimum age: 17 years
Good standard of English
At least 3 passes at Junior Certificate or equivalent for full-time employment in schools
Applicants not already working in the area must indicate how they plan to obtain work experience during the course
Previously achieved QQI modules used towards certification must have been completed within the last five years

Assessment / Examinations
Continuous assessment throughout the course.

Work Experience
Students are required to complete 40 hours of work experience during the course if they are not already working in the area. Students must secure their own placement.

Garda Vetting
Garda Vetting is mandatory before commencing work placement. Students who have lived outside Ireland for more than 6 months must also provide Police Clearance Certification for all international addresses lived at before placement begins.