Advanced Training in Special Needs Assisting and Play Therapy

QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Inclusive Education and Training 6M2263 (More about QQI)
Accredited Training in Lámh Sign Language Programme
Occupational First Aid
Túsla Child Protection Online Training

This comprehensive course is designed to enhance and deepen the professional skills needed to work effectively as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) / Additional Needs Assistant (ANA) in primary and post primary schools, as well as a wide range of educational and care settings.

Through a combination of practical training, theoretical study, and experiential learning, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity, inclusive practices and the diverse learning needs of students.

In addition, there will be a focus on play therapy which can be used in different environments to support emotional wellbeing and inclusive learning. You will learn how structured, purposeful play can help children express emotions, build confidence, develop social skills, and feel more secure within their environment.

Employment Opportunities:

Employment in Community and Healthcare services working in Public and Private Health sectors for adults and children with disabilities.

Working as a Special Needs Assistant / Additional Needs Assistant in:

  • Primary Schools
  • Secondary Schools

Duration: One Year Full-Time - September to May

Coordinator: Siobhan Murphy

Email: siobhanmurphy@scfe.ie

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Course content

  • Inclusive Education Practice
  • Disability Awareness
  • Differentiated Learning & Instruction
  • Special Needs Assisting
  • Therapeutic Play Skills
  • Boundary Management
  • Work Experience
  • Communications

Course features and facilities

  • Educational field trips
  • Interactive workshop from AsIam
  • Guest speakers
  • Accredited Training in Lámh Sign Language Programme
  • Occupational First Aid
  • Work Experience forms an integral part of the course offering the opportunity for learners to gain practical experience in their chosen fields of interest
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Entry requirements

  • QQI Level 5 Award or equivalent or relevant industry experience
  • Interview
  • Mature applicants welcome
  • Applicants may be accepted without meeting formal entry requirements

“Completing the Level 5 SNA course was an amazing experience that I’ll treasure for a long time. I made friendships that I hope will last, and I had teachers who supported me and pushed me further than I ever expected. Their encouragement helped me grow not only academically, but also in confidence and independence. Through Erasmus, I had the chance to study and work in another country, an incredible opportunity that I’m extremely grateful for. After finishing Level 5, I chose to move on to Level 6, and I’m really glad I did. It helped me build on what I had already learned, understand the role of an SNA more deeply, and feel better prepared for the future. Overall, the experience has been rewarding, challenging, and very meaningful.”
(Hayden Maher, Graduate 2026)

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INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AND TRAINING WITH DISABILITY STUDIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS ASSISTING

Other courses

Education progression

Below are some examples of progression options with this QQI level 6 award in Inclusive Education and Training 6M2263
TU Dublin City CentreEarly Childhood Education GLevel 8TU995

For a more detailed list of progression options please www.cao.ie

For more progression options

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DCUEducation and Training GLevel 8DC235
DCUEarly Childhood Education GLevel 8DC001
TU Dublin Blanch/TallaghtEarly Childhood Care and Education GLevel 7TU790
TU Dublin Blanch/TallaghtEarly Childhood Care and Education GLevel 8TU989
TU Dublin BlanchardstownApplied Social Studies in Social Care GLevel 7TU791
TU Dublin BlanchardstownApplied Social Studies in Social Care GLevel 8TU991
TU Dublin BlanchardstownCommunity and Youth Development GLevel 7TU792
TU Dublin BlanchardstownCommunity and Youth Development GLevel 8TU992
TU Dublin TallaghtApplied Social Care GLevel 8TU997
Maynooth UniversityCommunity and Youth Work G+Level 8MH116
Maynooth UniversityEarly Childhood Teaching &Learning GLevel 8MH003
Maynooth UniversityCommunity and Youth Work G+ (Part-time In Service)Level 8MH802
South East TUEarly Childhood Education &Practice GLevel 8CW748
Direct Application (Non CAO courses) – Private Colleges (Fees Payable)
Portobello InstituteMontessori TeachingLevel 6
+ Questionnaire / Skills Test and Interview G Garda Vetting Required Advanced Entry Graduates of this QQI Level 6 course may also be considered for advanced entry to related degree programmes. Students may be eligible to progress to the second year of a course where they fulfil the college’s entry requirements.

Course modules are reviewed annually and may be subject to change