Special Needs Assistant
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence in the practices and principles underpinning the role of the Special Needs Assistant in order to enable the learner to work effectively, under direction, in a special needs assisting capacity.
| Award Name | Level 5 Component Award (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Minor |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Component Award (Level 5 NFQ) | Minor | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
Course runs over 12 Weeks.
12 x 3 hour classes. Time: 6.30pm. - 9.30pm.
Entry Requirements
It is preferable that learners have either a QQI Level 4 certificate or equivalent qualifications and/or relevant life and work experiences.
English Language Requirements
Learners whose first language is not English must show that they meet a certain standard of English language proficiency.
This can be proven through any one of the following methods:
- Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Level B2 or higher
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – Minimum overall band score of 6
- Successful completion of a qualification at an equivalent level through the medium of English
Recognition of Prior Learning
Prior learning can only be applied to gain admission to a programme and does not allow learners the opportunity to skip individual modules.
Careers / Further progression
Transfer and Progression
Information and guidance is available to all learners on potential transfer and progression pathways.
Further information
Start Date: Tuesday 26th September 2023.
€360. Please note the course must be paid in full 2 weeks before the course starts.
Who can apply for funding?
If you a job seeker wishing to participate in any of our Pinnacle Training courses you may be entitled to a Department of Social Welfare ‘Training Support Grant ‘ covering some or part of the course.
Funding applies to the full range of courses & programmes offered by Pinnacle Training up to QQI Level 6.
How much grant funding is available?
€1,000 annual grants are available if you’re eligible.
Am I eligible for a grant?
If you are in receipt of a Social Welfare payment, including PUP, you may be eligible for a grant to pay for your course/s at pinnacletraining.ie – up to a maximum of €1,000 per year
The Training Support Grant is designed to support access to the workplace and promote career opportunities.
Decisions on eligibility are made by individual case officers, where case officers have identified an immediate skills gap or obstacle.
More Information and how do I apply?
More information is available online at gov.ie
- Training Support Grant (www.gov.ie)
All Job Seeker applications for the Training Support Grant must be made via a case officer at your local Intreo Centre.
When your funding has been granted/approved please contact Pinnacle Training and we will book you in to the next available course.
This course is designed for people working or planning to work with Children with special needs as a Special Needs Assistant. Most special needs assistants will work in a crèche, playschool, day centre for children with special needs, primary or secondary school.
Aim:
Learners will acquire knowledge, skills and competence in the role of the Special Needs Assistant, learning how to effectively relate to children with special needs.
Working within the principles of good practice (e.g confidentiality, inclusion, independence, boundaries,etc.) they will learn how to form appropriate relationships with the children, their parents, their primary carers, teachers and other professionals.
On this course, learners will:
- Explore the role and responsibilities of the Special Needs Assistant
- Examine the qualities and skills of an effective Special Needs Assistant
- 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.
NOTE: Each learner must complete a minimum of 20 hours work experience to enable them to acquire knowledge, skill, competence and have assessments carried out in a notified Early Childhood Care and Education setting or recognised equivalent.
Assessment:
Skills Demonstration 60%
Learner Record 40%
5N1786 Special Needs Assisting
QQI Code: 5N1786 Special Needs Assisting
Award Type: Component Award
Award Level: Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications
Protection for Enrolled Learners
Protection for Enrolled Learners is not required as this course is less than 3 months in duration.
To enquire about this course or get further course content, please call 01 8675214 or email paula.smyth@pinnacletraining.ie