Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 April 2026
362. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth the specific training modules that deal with the question of visual impairment in the state-subsidised SNA upskilling programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29228/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a procurement process for the continued provision of the SNA National Training Programme, a contract was awarded to Atlantic Technological University (ATU). The course is being delivered jointly by the School of Education and the School of Nursing, Health Sciences and Disability Studies at ATU St Angela’s College, Sligo.
From September 2025 the course has included additional modules and practical in-person training at regional locations, fostering communities of practice among SNAs.
This programme contains six modules:
• Module one – Inclusive Education with Additional Educational Needs.
• Module two – Language and Communication.
• Module three – Social and Emotional Development.
• Module four – Supporting Students with Primary Care Needs, including Medical and Complex Needs.
• Module five – Supporting Students with Autism.
• Module six – Professional Development of SNAs.
As part of this programme, ATU have included a live hour-long webinar on the Role of the Special Needs Assistant in working with Students who are Blind/ Vision Impaired. This webinar is delivered by a Visiting Teacher currently in service with the NCSE.
To date, approximately 3,775 SNAs have completed the National Training Programme which is fully funded by my department for all SNAs working in recognised primary, post-primary and special schools.
Separately, as you will be aware my department is currently advancing work on the first SNA Workforce Development Plan. The plan, which is scheduled for publication shortly, aims to bring clarity and direction to the SNA service through policy developments in five key areas:
• Pillar 1: Review and Development of the SNA Role.
• Pillar 2: Establishment of a Quality Framework.
• Pillar 3: Establishment of an SNA Learning and Development Programme.
• Pillar 4: Supporting SNA Recruitment, Retention, and Diversity.
• Pillar 5: Development of a Communications Strategy.
The plan is being developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including SNAs, school management bodies, unions, schools, parents, and students. Importantly, SNAs are represented on each of the five working groups.
It is intended that the Learning and Development Programme being developed under pillar 3 of the plan will strengthen SNA service delivery by providing equitable access to appropriate, legitimate opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, to ensure that SNAs are equipped to meet the complex needs of children and young people in their care in an evolving educational environment.
I am pleased to state that work on the SNA Workforce Development Plan is at an advanced stage. The plan will provide recommendations and strategies to deliver an enhanced SNA service which will benefit children and young people with special educational needs in our schools.
