Part-time Special Needs Assisting (Level 5)

This course allows learners to gain employment as Special Needs Assistants in a range of settings including creches, primary schools, secondary schools, special schools and working with adults with intellectual disabilities.

Duration

Two years part-time for the full award.  Students will receive a QQI component certificate at the end of the first year.  

Modules

2025-2026

  • Human Growth & Development 5N1279
  • Safety & Health at Work 5N1794
  • Social Studies 5N1370
  • Communications 5N0690

 

2026-2027

  • Work Experience 5N1356
  • Intellectual Disability Studies 5N1652
  • Special Needs Assisting 5N1786
  • Care Provision & Practice 5N2705

Certification

NFQ Level 5 award made by QQI in Community Care 5M2786.

Career Options

The course is especially suited for learners who wish to gain employment as Special Needs Assistants in a creche, primary school, secondary school, special school or working with adults with intellectual disabilities.  

Third Level Progression

This course allows progression to a number of courses including:
  • Early Childhood Care and Education TU790 & TU989, Applied Social Care TU997 and other degree programmes in TU Dublin-Tallaght accept this award.
  • A number of degrees in UCD accept this award including Social Sciences DN700, Psychology DN720 and Social Policy and Sociology DN750.
  • TU Dublin- City Centre Campus accept this course on the Social Care TU996 programme.
Please contact admin@greenhillscollege.ie with any queries.

Entry Requirements

  • Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied Programme, QQI Level 4 full major award or equivalent.
  • Work/life experience may be acceptable for mature students.
  • Students should be 16 years old or over at the start of the course.
  • Aptitude: Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject area and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
  • Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B1 or higher).
  • Garda vetting clearance is required for all students taking this course.

Fees

For details on our fees, please click here.

The lecturers are so down to earth, honest and hard-working. They knew where we were coming from in life and were so supportive; going above and beyond to help each and every student in their class. Their enthusiasm and professional approach and their understanding made for a very positive atmosphere. The other students who attended helped to create a warm and positive vibe. They were all easy going and friendly. Classes were fun and we all helped each other with the course material.  

Audrey Nicholson (Class of 2021). 

In my opinion, Greenhills College is suitable for everyone.  On my course we had a real mix of people from recent school leavers, mothers with young families and people returning to education having worked for over 25 years.  There was a real comradery between the students and this was strengthened by supportive teachers.  We all got so much from the course including a first-rate education and a recognised qualification from QQI. Since completing the course, I have been offered a full time permanent SNA position in a secondary school close to where I live. I am also planning on completing another course in Special Needs Education as my long term goal is to become a special educational needs (SEN) teacher.

Miriam Quinn (Class of 2021). Employed as a full-time, permanent SNA in a second-level school.

The fact that SNA is included in the course is such an added bonus. The hours really suited alongside family life. The tutors are in tune with your needs returning to college as a mature student. The tutors take you under their wing and support and encourage you so that you can achieve anything if you are willing to put in the work.  The courses Greenhills College offer will open doors and possibilities. My aim is to be in employment working as a SNA. I worked hard to receive a full house of Distinctions which will open doors for me to go Tallaght University where I will pursue Child Psychology. 

Emma Kilgannon (Class of 2021).

In my opinion, Greenhills College is suitable for everyone.  On my course we had a real mix of people from recent school leavers, mothers with young families and people returning to education having worked for over 25 years.  There was a real comradery between the students and this was strengthened by supportive teachers.  We all got so much from the course including a first-rate education and a recognised qualification from QQI. Since completing the course, I have been offered a full time permanent SNA position in a secondary school close to where I live. I am also planning on completing another course in Special Needs Education as my long term goal is to become a special educational needs (SEN) teacher.

Miriam Quinn (Class of 2021). Employed as a full-time, permanent SNA in a second-level school.