Special Needs Assisting with Early Learning & Care
This course provides students with the knowledge, practical skills and qualifications required to pursue a career as a Special Needs Assistant in a variety of educational contexts and community care settings.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
150 hours work experience in a minimum of 2 settings catering for children aged (0 – 2 years & 8 months) and (2 years & 8 months to 6 years)
Garda Vetting
English Language and Literacy Competency
Course Interview
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Successful graduates can progress directly into the world of work as an SNA in primary and secondary school classrooms or special schools. Or work as an AIM Assistant in an Early Years Setting. Alternatively, graduates may opt to continue to Stage 2 of the QQI Level 6 Early Learning and Care course in DIFE or progress to related degree courses.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
This course provides students with the knowledge, practical skills and qualifications required to pursue a career as a Special Needs Assistant in a variety of educational contexts and community care settings.
This course qualifies participants to work as SNAs in a creche, playgroup, primary and secondary school classrooms or special schools. Learners will attain the knowledge and skills necessary to support children in their learning environment. The course is suitable for both school leavers and mature students seeking a formal qualification.
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Special Needs Assisting
Professional Practice Placement in ELC (150 hours compulsory work experience)
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Holistic Care of Children
Curriculum Play & Creative Studies
Children’s Rights Legislation
Additional Qualifications:
Manual Handling
Children First E-Learning Programme
Special Needs Training Workshops
5M21473 – Early Learning & Care Stage 1.
Award: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care - 5M21473
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie