Certificate in Special Needs Assisting

NFQ Level 6

Start your journey in Special Needs Assisting (SNA). Learn how to deliver inclusive education. Build a career helping others to learn in inclusive settings.

Available Locations:

Stranorlar

(Ref: 510955)

Starts: 17/09/2026

13 Weeks

Apply Now

Stranorlar

(Ref: 510955)

Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.

What You'll Learn

After successfully completing this course, you will be able to:

Understand how education for people with special needs works in Ireland today.
Learn how to help with planning and delivering lessons.
Understand the difference between inclusion and integration in schools.
Support learners to become more independent and responsible.
Work as part of a team to help create Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
Help teachers support students with special needs in the classroom.
Use positive ways to manage behaviour.
Plan activities that match learners’ needs and interests.
Recognise ways to manage stress in the workplace.
Give care and support to people with special needs.
Reflect on your own values and attitudes when working with others.#

The opportunity for work placement will be provided during this course.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 6 Component Module Certificate in Special Needs Assisting.

Timetable & Modules

Timetable:

This course will take place in-person, every Thursday from 9.30am-2pm

Module	Title
6N1957	Special Needs Assisting

Progression / Career

This qualification prepares you to work as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) in primary, secondary, and special education settings. It builds on your understanding of inclusive education and equips you with the practical skills needed to support learners with additional needs.

It also provides a strong foundation for further study in areas such as education, social care, or early childhood education, and can support progression into roles in learning support, classroom assistance, or care work.

Entry Requirements

Students need to have level 5 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.

Share This Course:

Real Students, Real Results!

While the focus for most of us on the course was achieving the D licence, there were lots of extras like First Aid, Tourism Visitor Care and Gluais training which I found very useful when I went looking for a job as I had more than just the D licence to offer to an employer.

Dylan Robinson

Qualified Tour Bus Driver, Driving With Tourism Graduate,

“I couldn’t recommend further education and training with Donegal College enough as it provides a great way back into education, to further education or to get a job.”

Shannon Shelby Driscoll

Qualified Teacher and Early Childhood Care and Education Graduate

“I thought there was never a chance for me to go and do nursing. I left school early because I became a mum at a young age and I didn’t have a Leaving Certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone.”

Elaine Tinney

Tertiary Degree Access Route into General Nursing (B.Sc. Hons) Recent Graduate

“The support started from the reception, when you come to Donegal College it is a special atmosphere.”

Yuliia Vaniukova

ACCA Graduate

“With a small class we were able to get comfortable around each other and we were never afraid to ask a question.”

Miranda Darnell

Animal Care Graduate

“It has brought me on so much to believe that any of us are capable of something in the right environment and with people supporting you.”

Lisa Doherty

Pathway to Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning Studies, Graduate

Need Help Applying For a Course at Donegal College?

If you are unsure about what course to do or need help in finding out which level is most appropriate for you then our admissions team are here to help you….

Courses FAQ's

Who can apply for Donegal College courses?

Our courses are open to school leavers, lifelong learners, job seekers, employees, and employers looking to upskill or reskill.

How do I apply for a course?

You can make your applications for full-time and part-time courses online; you can start the process here on the Donegal College website. Click ‘APPLY‘ on the course of your choice; this redirects you to Fetchcourses.ie, where your application will be processed using the FETCH Courses website and system.

If you haven’t signed up for a FETCH account, you’ll be required to do so first; this is a one-time setup.

Are the Donegal College courses accredited?

Yes. Many of our courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), typically Levels 4–6, as well as awards from ILM, City & Guilds, and other industry-recognised bodies.

Where do the courses take place?

Courses are delivered across Donegal at one of our 19 Donegal College campuses, certain courses are delivered in community venues in your local area, various courses are delivered online or through blended learning, and training can be offered on-site at your business, depending on the course.

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