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Certificate in Special Needs Assisting and Caring for Children with Additional Needs
NFQ Level 5
- Evening
- In-Person
- 36 Weeks
Available Locations:
- Applications now closed. We’ll be back with new dates shortly.
Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.Â
What You'll Learn
You will have the opportunity to learn and undertake:
- Special Needs Assisting: Develop the skills to support children with additional needs in educational and care settings, both independently and under supervision.
- Understanding Intellectual Disabilities: Gain insight into intellectual disabilities and how to support individuals to live fulfilling, independent lives.
- Inclusive Practice: Learn how to promote inclusion, participation, and equality in community and educational environments.
- Supporting Learning: Gain techniques to assist in the learning and development of individuals with additional needs.
- Managing Behaviour: Understand and apply strategies to respond to challenging behaviours with empathy and professionalism.
- Health and Safety Awareness: Understand the importance of safeguarding, health and safety, and best practice in care environments.
- Communication and Teamwork: Strengthen your ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate with individuals, families, and professionals.
Work placement (minimum of 30 hours)Â is a key part of this course, helping learners build real-world experience and employability skills.
On successful completion of relevant modules within this course, you will receive Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 5 Component Certificates.
Timetable & Modules
Timetable:Â
This course will take place in-person, every Thursday from 6pm to 9pm
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | |||
| Tue | |||
| Wed | |||
| Thu | ✔ | ||
| Fri |
| Module | Title |
| 5N1786 | Special Needs Assisting |
| 5N2396 | Children With Additional Needs |
Progression / Career
After successfully completing this course, graduates can seek roles in education, care, and community support settings.
Possible roles include Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), Care Assistants, Support Workers, and Classroom Assistants. Opportunities exist across the public, private, and voluntary sectors.
Graduates can also progress to further and/or higher education and training in areas such as education, social care, or disability studies.
Entry Requirements
- Students need to have level 4 skills and knowledge from the National Qualifications Framework (NFQ) to succeed in this course. You can show this through relevant life and work experience as no formal qualifications are required for entry to this course.
- Students must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to gain the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
- According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.
Eligibility
Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.
Cost / Fees
You may be eligible for reduced course fees or a fee waiver (i.e. no cost).
We will talk to you about the possible low/no cost fees options during your application process.
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Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?
The first step is to secure a job with an approved apprentice employer. An Apprenticeship is a three-way contract of employment between you, your employer and SOLAS, with on-the-job and off-the-job training delivered in phases. Full details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie
To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie