Course Details
This course gives you the opportunity to qualify and work as a special needs assistant.
Qualification
QQI Level 5Course | Delivery Mode | Start Date | Duration | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
22nd January 2024 | 1 week | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
21st February 2024 | 3 months | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
25th March 2024 | 1 week | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
23rd April 2024 | 3 months | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
20th May 2024 | 1 week | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
19th June 2024 | 3 months | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
15th July 2024 | 1 week |
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Overview
What will I study during this Special Needs Assistant – Level 5 course?
During this course, you will learn about development and learning in children with special needs and about the role of an SNA. You will learn about child development and behaviour theories and how a range of activities can promote physical, social, emotional and intellectual development in children with learning, physical and behavioural disabilities. You will develop the capacity to work and communicate effectively with parents, families, colleagues and other professionals to safeguard, support and promote children’s learning, development and well-being.
During this programme you will cover the following topics:
The Role of the Special Needs Assistant
Equal Opportunities Child Development (Overview)
Theories of Learning and Behaviour
Physical and Intellectual Disabilities
Communications and Language Disabilities
Work Experience
The learning outcomes for this programme are as follows;
- Explore the role and responsibilities of the Special Needs Assistan
- Examine the qualities and skills of an effective Special Needs Assistant
- Examine relevant legislation in relation to disability
- Explore the rights of children with disabilities in relation to personal autonomy, participation and decision making
- Relate effectively and appropriately to children who present with additional needs
- Use care routines in feeding, toileting and general hygiene
- Maintain appropriate relationships with children parents, primary carers, teachers and other members of the multidisciplinary team
- Work effectively with children who present with disabilities under the direction of the classroom teacher
- Assist children with disabilities in a range of activities, ensuring equality of opportunity through working in a safe and professional manner
- Reflect on personal practice working with children, their parents or guardians and colleagues ensuring that children’s individuality is promoted and that their needs are met
For those that wish to progress to their Level 6 award in Special Needs we have scheduled a continuation course in each region to start approximately two weeks after the Level 5 course ends.
Who will I learn from?
Programme Manager
Personal Academic Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.
Personal Academic Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.
How will I learn?
Delivery Mode
This is a one-week intensive course delivered online with webinars. Portobello Institute has re-designed this course for delivery as an elearning and Webinar course. We have extensive experience delivering elearning courses and have the resources that are specifically designed for delivering courses to an e-learning audience.
What is a Webinar?
A webinar, in the context of online learning, is a lecturer delivering a presentation or class online to a group of students. We use specifically designed elearning software so you can participate in the class just as if you were present in the same room. You can ask a question of the lecturer at any stage during the class. The software is designed with “break-out rooms” where you can discuss a topic or complete a group exercise with a smaller group from your class. You will need a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone that has internet connection, an audio facility so you can hear and speak during the class and a camera so your lecturer and fellow class participants can see you. The webinar is a secure online environment and only those permitted entry by the lecturer can gain access to the “classroom”. Webinars are recorded during each session and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access Webinars of the group you are assigned to.
Course Structure
Each morning you will attend a Webinar from 10am to 12.30pm delivered by an experienced SNA lecturer. You will spend the afternoon completing coursework in preparation for the next session the following morning. This course is delivered over 5 days with a submission date for assignments after the course has completed. You may choose to study the level 6 course the following week and a special rate is available when booking both courses together.
Course Schedule - January 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 22/01/24 – 26/01/24
Each morning you will attend a Webinar from 10am to 12.30pm delivered by an experienced SNA lecturer.
Course Schedule - March 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 25/03/24 – 29/03/24
Each morning you will attend a Webinar from 10am to 12.30pm delivered by an experienced SNA lecturer.
Course Schedule - May 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 20/05/24 – 24/05/24
Each morning you will attend a Webinar from 10am to 12.30pm delivered by an experienced SNA lecturer.
Course Schedule - July 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 15/07/24 – 19/07/24
Each morning you will attend a Webinar from 10am to 12.30pm delivered by an experienced SNA lecturer.
Real Life Learning Opportunities
Work Placement
During this course you will spend 20 hours on a work placement in a special needs assisting setting. During the placement you will have the opportunity to put into practice the exercises and skills you will have learned during the programme. You will have the opportunity by using these skills to stimulate, develop and guide the children under your direction to develop to their full potential. We aim to ensure that you will have the opportunity to gain experience in a setting that is aligned with your career ambitions.
How will I be assessed?
A variety of assessment methods are used to support students with different learning styles. These vary from written reports to practical case studies to examinations. We encourage you to reflect on your knowledge gain with a number of assignments designed to explore your learning journey. All of these assessment methods are seeking to support you to combine theory with scenario-based learning and how to practically implement these methods into your everyday practice.
Delivery Mode
Portobello Institute has designed this course for delivery as an e-learning and Webinar course. We have extensive experience delivering e-learning courses and have the resources that are specifically designed for delivering courses to an e-learning audience.
What is a Webinar?
A webinar, in the context of online learning, is a lecturer delivering a presentation or class online to a group of students. We use specifically designed e-learning software so you can participate in the class just as if you were present in the same room. You can ask a question to the lecturer at any stage during the class. The software is designed with “break-out rooms” where you can discuss a topic or complete a group exercise with a smaller group from your class. You will need a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone that has internet connection, an audio facility so you can hear and speak during the class and a camera so your lecturer and fellow class participants can see you. The webinar is a secure online environment and only those permitted entry by the lecturer can gain access to the “classroom”. Webinars are recorded during each session and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access webinars of the group you are assigned to.
Course Structure
Interactive webinars are held Wednesdays, 7 – 9.30pm.
Your course will run at a specific time each week when you will log-on and your tutor will deliver the content over a 2 hr period with a break of 10 minutes half-way through. You can ask a question at any stage and hear the questions and responses of other students attending this course. Your tutor is available up to 20 minutes before class so you may log-on early and seek support if there are any areas of the content that you need additional support with. Alternatively, our full-time programme manager is available to support you throughout your learning journey.
Course materials are structured to be accessed on a week by week basis and are available to download from our e-learning platform as you progress through the course. Assignments are all designed for completion at home and once completed, you will upload these to the elearning platform. Feedback and results are posted here for you to access too.
You will have the opportunity to engage with your fellow course colleagues as if you were in class together – all from the comfort and safety of your chosen environment. Webinars are available to download at a later stage should you miss a class making this a very flexible and convenient mode of learning.
Course Schedule - February 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 21/02/24 – 24/04/24
Interactive webinars are held Wednesdays, 7 – 9.30pm.
Course Schedule - April 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 23/04/24 – 25/06/24
Interactive webinars are held Wednesdays, 7 – 9.30pm.
Course Schedule - June 2024 Start Date
This course will run from the 19/06/24 – 21/08/24
Interactive webinars are held Wednesdays, 7 – 9.30pm.
Real Life Learning Opportunities
Work Placement
During this course you will spend 20 hours on a work placement in a special needs assisting setting. During the placement you will have the opportunity to put into practice the exercises and skills you will have learned during the programme. You will have the opportunity by using these skills to stimulate, develop and guide the children under your direction to develop to their full potential. We aim to ensure you that have the opportunity to gain experience in a setting that is aligned with your career ambitions.
How will I be assessed?
A variety of assessment methods are used to support students with different learning styles. These vary from written reports to practical case studies to examinations. We encourage you to reflect on your knowledge gain with a number of assignments designed to explore your learning journey. All of these assessment methods are seeking to support you to combine theory with scenario-based learning and how to practically implement these methods into your everyday practice.
Career prospects
What is the role of a Special Needs Assistant?
Special needs assistants play an important role in supporting those with learning, physical or behavioural difficulties. The role of an SNA in the classroom involves assisting the teacher to support students with special educational needs who may also have significant care needs. Through education, knowledge and understanding an SNA can ensure that a child with special needs experiences a positive learning experience developing their confidence and independence.
Related Courses
Special Needs Assistant – Level 5 & Level 6 Booking Package
This gives you the opportunity to qualify and work as a special needs assistant. By booking both courses together you can progress straight to the level 6 course upon completion of the level 5 and avail of a discount, making your study more affordable.
Speak to an expert
Choosing a course that will lead you to your career of choice is a significant decision. Understanding the delivery modes, supports available, career opportunities and further study options are all key considerations when making your choice. Our course adviser team are experts in the courses Portobello offers, the employment prospects and possible progression routes to other programmes – they will guide you through the detail and support you with any queries you may have.
It is important you make the right choice for you and choose the Institute and course that will best suit your needs.
Your Consultant

Jennifer Matteazzi
How long are you working in Portobello?
I have been working for Portobello Institute for over 5 years now.
What do you enjoy about working in Portobello?
I love the interaction with students. Every day I get to meet different individuals and learners who are looking to change their lives and I get to be the person who advises them on the best programme to take. It is a fantastic feeling to be part of their journey. For many learners this is a huge decision and I get to be the person who supports them in making that decision. There is an incredible sense of pride when I see our learners graduate and achieve their education goals.
What inspires you about working in education?
I believe that education is impowering and it can often change people’s lives. It increases the learner’s confidence and it allows the learner to reach their full potential. Coming back to education hugely lifts the learner’s self esteem.
Have you a story that you recall that touched you/made you laugh/made you cry?
One particular lady struggled with dyslexia all her life. Her disability really affected her years in school, her career choices and when this learner approached Portobello Institute I worked with her to establish the best way forward, the right course for her was without a doubt in childcare. This lady registered on the course and she needed a lot of hand holding throughout her studies from both myself and the academic team. I recall that the day of her graduation, she received the “Student of Year” award. We were all thrilled and delighted for her! This learner has since gone on to open a very successful Montessori setting.
How do you feel when you have helped a student reach a decision on their course choice?
I am there to be the deciding factor for our learners. We support people in making the right choice of programme for them. We reassure them the whole way and we support them throughout. It is a very rewarding feeling to be part of this process.
How do I apply?
Entry to this course is by direct application to the college.
Requirements
Without a Leaving Certificate
There are no previous academic or experience requirements for this course.
Application Process
Step 1
Complete the online booking form.
Step 2
Confirmation of a place will be given to applicants upon successful completion of the booking form.
Fees & Payment Options
Fees
Course Price
Year 1 base fee
Overall Course Price
Total amount due
Fees
Course Price
Year 1 base fee
Overall Course Price
Total amount due
Available Courses
Course | Delivery Mode | Start Date | Duration | Fees Per Year | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
22nd January 2024 | 1 week | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
21st February 2024 | 3 months | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
25th March 2024 | 1 week | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
23rd April 2024 | 3 months | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
20th May 2024 | 1 week | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Online with webinars
|
19th June 2024 | 3 months | €595.00 | |
Special Needs Assistant - Level 5 |
Intensive short course
|
15th July 2024 | 1 week | €595.00 |
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details
Book
Hooray! One small step for you, one giant leap for your future! Enter your email and you will be redirected to our online booking platform. Here's what to expect:
- Enter your email
- You'll be redirected to our online booking platform
- Complete the online booking form
- Review and select preferred payment option
- A Portobello course advisor will be in touch with course details