The Comprehensive Review of the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Scheme which set out to ensure that the Scheme is achieving the best outcomes possible for children with special educational needs was published by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) in May this year.
In undertaking the Review the NCSE consulted widely to seek the views of the many stakeholders involved, this included SNAs and the SNA representative body to which the Deputy refers. The views expressed by all stakeholders were considered in the preparation of the report.
One of the recommendations in the Review is the development of a national training programme at FETAC level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications for existing and new SNAs, recognising the fundamental importance of building schools' capacity to meet students' additional care needs.
In response to the Review, I have undertaken to develop proposals for the implementation of the NCSE's recommendations and to return to Government following engagement with the Departments of Public Expenditure and Reform and Health, with a proposed implementation plan to include governance and accountability framework and detailed costings of any recommendations that subsequently may be approved by Government.
Work in this regard is underway and I expect to bring these proposals for implementation of the Review's recommendations to Government shortly.
Further consultation with all relevant stakeholders will be undertaken subsequent to Government approval.
