Special Needs Assistant
(Community Health Services)
Take the first step!
INTRODUCTION:
If you have an aptitude for and an interest in working with children that have specific needs, then it is worth considering this course. Learn all of the knowledge and skills required to function as an SNA in a school or other setting. If you want to make a difference in the lives of others this is definitely a course that will impact positively on children, families and society.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
- Leaving Certificate, LCA or QQI Level 4.
- Mature students are exempt from Leaving Certificate requirement.
- CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English.
- Applicants apply online through the college website. All applicants will be interviewed. An offer of a place on this course is contingent on the applicant meeting the requirements set out here and satisfactory presentation at interview.
Note: This course requires students to be Garda Vetted through the Campus. Prospective students should also be aware that some aspects of this course are physically demanding and should satisfy themselves that they are physically fit enough to undertake it.
DURATION:
September to May.
FEES:
See fees & payment for details.
CERTIFICATION:
- Community Health Services (5M4468).
- QQI Component Maths (5N1833) (Available as option in the evening, in Morrison’s Island Campus, for learners requiring Maths for progression).
COURSE CONTENT:
Child Development - 5N1764
The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence relevant to the theory and practice of child development and learning within early childhood care and education settings (ECCE).
Early Childhood Education and Play - 5N1773
The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to ensure that each child’s learning, development and well-being is facilitated through the provision of opportunities, experiences, activities, interaction, materials and equipment, having regard to the age and stage of
development of the child and the child’s cultural context.
Caring for Children in Hospital - 5N3737
Learn the appropriate skills to care for a child in hospital including care skills, communication, education and play. Identify the implications of current childcare legislation. Practice a range of skills to required to work confidently and effectively with a child in hospital.
Understand Special Needs - 5N1709
Develop an ideal of good practice when relating to individuals with special needs. Outline the range of special needs, conditions and impairments, cause, diagnosis, prognosis and epistemology. Describe the different learning and therapy programmes provided by professionals in the area of special needs. Discuss current policy in relation to special needs.
Special Needs Assisting - 5N1786
This module explores the role and responsibilities, qualities and skills of the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) and examines the relevant legislation in relation to disability. It explores the rights of children in relation to personal autonomy, participation and decision making and enables the learner to maintain appropriate relationships with children, parents, primary carers, teachers and other members of the multi-disciplinary team, whilst working effectively with children who present with disabilities under the direction of the classroom teacher. Learners will learn how to outline the role and responsibilities of the Special Needs Assistant, relate effectively and appropriately to children who present with additional need, as well as assist these children in a range of activities, ensuring equality of opportunity through working in a safe and professional manner.
Equality and Disability - 5N1273
The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to challenge personal and/or organisational behaviour that discriminates against people with disabilities. It aims to provide learners with an awareness of the importance of equality for people with disabilities in all areas of
society.
Intellectual Disability Studies - 5N1652
Equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence in the causes, range and effects of intellectual disabilities to develop an awareness of the importance of a social model of support and the role of various professionals in responding to the needs of persons with an intellectual disability.
Work Experience - 5N1356
Planning, preparation and reflection on work placement. Job finding strategies, CV and personal statement preparation, interview skills. Practise employability skills with a view to future planning.
Communications - 5N0690
Acquire the writing skills needed for the workplace, learn to speak fluently and coherently in a professional setting, develop interpersonal skills and have an understanding of the impact of ICT on society.
ADDITIONAL TRAINING / WORKSHOPS:
- Introduction to GDPR (online training) – This course gives learners an overview of GDPR. The workshop examines what GDPR stands for and gives an understanding of the current data protection rules and obligations. The learners also receive information on the types of data, the terminology associated with GDPR, the penalties with breaches, storage of data and general do’s and don’ts regarding data. A Certificate of Completion is issued on completion.
- Microsoft Outlook (online training) –This Microsoft Outlook workshop will give information on accessing your college email, Outlook layout, how to send and receive emails, attaching/downloading a file and reply options. It also covers organising your emails – folders etc, Outlook settings, signature, out-of-office reply, using the calendar, setting up meetings, setting up reminders and to do lists. A Certificate of Completion from Morrison’s Island Campus is issued on successful completion.
FAQ’s:
How is the course assessed?
The course is assessed through coursework (for example projects, assignments, learner records), these are done throughout the year. There will be some written/practical exams which will occur in late April/ May each year. Exam timetables are published by the Examinations & Assessment Committee through the Student Intranet and the Exam Scheduler App.
Are there job opportunities?
Successful graduates from this course may secure employment in hospitals, nursing homes, (public and private), agency work, day care facilities, private homecare sector as a healthcare support assistant, community care and intellectual disability environments.
Will I get a place in a 3rd level course if I do this course?
Many of our students each year progress to 3rd level courses. All progressions are available on the college website. However, there is no guarantee of a place. Students apply through the CAO using their QQI level 5 results, students need to work hard in order to achieve the best possible results.
WORK PLACEMENT / EXPERIENCE:
Students undertake work experience one day a week in an care environment.
Work placement is a highly valued component of the student experience here at the college. An excellent opportunity for you to gain insight into the world of work. Students are encouraged to source their own Work Placement.
EDUCATION PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES:
Some of our popular progression opportunities include:
- MTU Cork: Early Childhood Education & Care (MT972)
- MTU Cork: Montessori Education (MT970)
- UCC: Social Science (CK102)
- SETU (Waterford): Early Childhood Care & Education (SE911)
Other excellent progression opportunities to UCC and other Higher Education colleges. Special arrangements in place with MTU Cork (CCPS), MTU Kerry and SETU (Waterford & Carlow) for preferential entry for students of Morrison’s Island locations.
Go to our progressions database for exact requirements on progressions for this course.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
Career opportunities exist in any setting where expertise in special needs is relevant.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Email: snyoughal@morrisonsislandcampus.ie
Tel: (021) 4222 100