SNA courses
Explore SNA courses at City College Dublin for learners who want to begin or progress a career supporting children and young people with additional needs. Choose from QQI Level 5 and Level 6 Special Needs Assisting courses, combined programmes and related special education training.
Courses are available through on-campus, blended online and on-demand study, depending on the programme. Compare the options below to find the qualification, course content and delivery format that best match your experience and goals.
Compare your SNA course options
The most suitable SNA course will depend on your previous qualifications, experience and future goals.
-
SNA Level 5
A suitable starting point for learners who are new to Special Needs Assisting and want to develop a strong understanding of the role of an SNA.
-
SNA Level 6
Develop more advanced knowledge of inclusive support, professional practice and working with increased responsibility in education and care settings.
-
SNA Combined
Choose from combined programmes containing two Level 5 modules, a Level 5 and Level 6 module, or a three-module pathway covering two Level 5 modules and one Level 6 module.
-
Related Special Education Courses
Explore additional training in special education, children with additional needs and therapeutic play to broaden your knowledge and professional practice.
Browse SNA courses
- Blended Online
- On Campus
- On Demand
- QQI level 5
- QQI Level 5 & 6
- QQI level 6
- QQI level 7
Related Special Education Courses
About our SNA courses
Special Needs Assistants play an important role in supporting children and young people with additional care needs in educational settings. SNA training can help learners develop an understanding of the role and responsibilities of a Special Needs Assistant, inclusive practice, communication, health and safety, relevant legislation and working as part of a wider education team.
City College Dublin offers several SNA training routes rather than one single qualification. Learners can complete an individual QQI component certificate at Level 5 or Level 6, choose a combined programme covering multiple modules, or progress to related study in special education.
Course content and requirements vary between programmes. Work experience, assessment methods, QQI award codes and available delivery formats are therefore clearly listed on each individual course page.
Who Are Our SNA Courses Suitable For?
- Learners beginning their SNA training for the first time
- People seeking a recognised QQI qualification in Special Needs Assisting
- Learners progressing from Level 5 to more advanced Level 6 training
- Learners who want to complete two or three QQI modules through one combined SNA programme
- Existing education or care professionals seeking additional training
- Learners who need flexible online or on-demand study options
Learn from the best in your industry
Study your way, on your time
Programmes with purpose, aimed at your future
Here for you, every step of the way
What our SNA learners say
12.04.2025
My online training as an Special Needs Assistant (SNA) at City College Dublin (formerly Progressive College) in Ireland, in-conjunction with Amicus school in Kenya has really impacted me as a person. I was thrilled by the course outline and the quality of the contents. The material provided was very satisfactory and challenging. I would also like to thank my lecturer for her support and mentorship throughout my studies. Through her feedback and guidance I was able to widen my perspectives and understandings, enabling me to obtain new knowledge and learn new techniques which I could put into practice during my internship. I feel empowered and ready to work with children with special needs, at the same time I am planning to further my studies and advance my knowledge in order to increase my skills and become aware of any new discovery on how to handle specific individualised needs, improving the wellbeing and learning ability for children with Special Needs in Kenya. Alice Adhiambo Brunsnaes
09.01.2025
I did my SNA Courses with City College Dublin (Formerly City Colleges) and I was really happy with the outcome. The online option worked perfectly for me and the communication with the school was excellent when I needed it. Special thank you to Janet and additional tutors for their support during the courses.
Read More Read more testimonial from Savour the Grape 04.12.2024
I have just completed the level 7 Special Purpose Award in Special Education with City College Dublin (Formerly Progressive College). From the moment that I enquired about the course I found them so helpful. The course was presented clearly and concisely and it was great to have the option of the recorded lectures. I would highly recommend City College Dublin to anyone looking to up skill in the evenings.
read more Read more testimonial from Rebecca GalliganSNA course FAQs
The modules included depend on the course selected. Options include two QQI Level 5 modules, Special Needs Assisting at Level 5 and Level 6, or a three-module programme containing two Level 5 modules and one Level 6 module. Check the individual course page to confirm the exact combination and qualifications included.
QQI Level 5 is a suitable starting point for many learners who are new to Special Needs Assisting. Level 6 is designed for learners who want to develop more advanced knowledge, often after completing previous training or gaining relevant experience. A combined programme may suit learners who want to complete Level 5 and Level 6 through one structured course.
A Level 5 SNA course provides foundational training in the role and responsibilities of a Special Needs Assistant. Level 6 develops more advanced knowledge in areas such as inclusive support, observation, assessment procedures, professional practice and increased responsibility. Exact course content and entry requirements are listed on the individual course pages.
Yes. Selected SNA courses are available through blended online learning or fully on-demand study. Blended courses include scheduled online classes, while on-demand courses allow learners to access pre-recorded material and study more flexibly. Available formats vary by course.
Courses identified as QQI programmes lead to the relevant QQI component certificate at Level 5, Level 6 or both. The exact award level and module code are displayed on each individual course page.
Some SNA courses require learners to complete practical work experience. The number of hours varies by programme, and learners may be responsible for arranging their own suitable placement. Check the work experience section on the individual course page before enrolling.
Yes. City College Dublin offers combined SNA programmes that include QQI Level 5 and Level 6 Special Needs Assisting. Learners can choose between different module combinations and study formats depending on the programme.
Level 6 is generally intended for learners building on previous SNA training or relevant experience. However, entry requirements can vary, so you should review the individual Level 6 course page or contact the admissions team for guidance.
