Aim
Do you want to assist and help people reach their potential? Join our Special Needs Assistant programme and develop the core skills and competencies to support people with a range of additional needs in an inclusive and equitable manner. Graduates from this programme work in a range of settings, such as primary and post-primary education and well-case community and care homes. The purpose of this award is to develop the core skills and competencies needed to support people with a range of additional needs in an inclusive and equitable manner. Our graduates provide essential support to students with special needs and help them to reach their potential in a safe and inclusive environment.
Entry Requirements
- Leaving Certificate or its equivalent is advised
- Mature students are welcome to apply. Work/life experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.
What Our Students Say
“Having considered changing my career path for many years, I cannot fault my experience in DCFE. The experience was beyond what I thought it would be, from academic support to friendship and lots of laughs. I highly recommend you go for it and change your path. I wish I’d done this years ago!” Tanya Tiernan, DCFE Special Needs Assistant student
Programme of Study
Core Modules
- Communications
- Work Experience
- Human Growth & Development
- Equality and Disability
- School Age Childcare
- Special Needs Assisting
- Early Childhood Education and Play
- Person Centred Focus to Disability
Work Experience
A period of work experience is incorporated in this programme.
Career Opportunities
After completing our Special Needs Assistant programme, graduates will be qualified to support the learning environment of children attending different education settings, particularly in primary and post-primary schools. Our graduates provide essential support to students with special needs and help them to reach their potential in a safe and inclusive environment. This support can range from assisting students with their daily activities, such as getting dressed and eating meals, to helping them to learn and communicate effectively.
Special Needs Assistants play a crucial role in the education system, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals in this field. Our programme will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work in various education settings, including mainstream, special, and resource schools. You will be able to support children with a range of additional needs, such as physical disabilities, learning difficulties, and behavioural or emotional disorders.
Progression
Graduates who achieve the required standard may progress to further studies in Institutes of Technology and Universities. Examples of progression courses include:
- DIT, DT571 Social Care
- DIT, DT572 Early Childhood Education
- IT Blanchardstown, BN118 Early Childhood Education
