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Special Educational Needs Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020

Tuesday, 14 July 2020

Questions (667)

Gary Gannon

Question:

667. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her Department will increase the minimum qualification needed to become a SNA to a level 6 qualification in order to aid the sector’s call for greater professionalisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15857/20]

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Written answers

The current entry level qualification for Special Needs Assistants is set out in my Department's circular 0051/2019 which requires a FETAC level 3 major qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications, OR a minimum of three grade Ds in the Junior Certificate, OR the Equivalent. This remains unchanged.

The Comprehensive Review of the Special Needs Assistant Scheme was published by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) in 2018. The Review made a number of recommendations regarding SNAs. While SNAs are very much valued in the provision of care support, the Review recommended that a more broadly based set of supports was required including therapeutic supports. The current School Inclusion Pilot involving 78 schools is based on this recommendation.

The Review also referenced SNA qualifications and training. One of the recommendations of the Review was the development of a national training programme at FETAC level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications for existing and new SNAs. A quality training programme is being developed and will be available to all SNAs from January next. The aim of the programme is to ensure that all SNAs have the skills and competencies to carry out their care support role in schools.

While many SNAs have qualifications above the entry requirement, there are no plans to change the qualifications required for appointment.

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