Skip to content
A New Name. Same Commitment to Excellence. → Learn More about the Rebrand
💡Get 10% Off Further Education Courses! Use Code CARE10 before 30th September. → Apply Now
💡Get 10% Off Classroom & Live Online Diplomas! Use Code DIPLOMA10 before 30th September..
💡Get 10% Off On-Demand Professional Diplomas! Use Code DEMAND10 before 30th September..

Special Purpose Award in Special Education - QQI level 7

Incorporation logo
Start Date 13th October 2026
Duration 27 weeks
Learning Mode Blended Online
Code 7S22352
Level QQI level 7
ECTS Credit 15
Payment Options
instalment plan available Humm_Logo
Special Offer Use code SEN200 for €200 off

The Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award will appeal to those currently working as Special Needs Assistants (who have acquired an NFQ Level 6 award in Special Needs Assisting) with a strong foundation in special education and who are seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in this field.

This programme is also suitable for those seeking a level 7 qualification in special education to develop advanced skills in inclusive education and learner support.

This NFQ Level 7 programme focuses on further developing and enhancing specialised competencies in addressing the unique needs of individuals with diverse learning abilities.

Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, participants will explore the latest research, strategies, and interventions in Special Education.

For more guidelines and support resources in special education, you can refer to the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) here.

ENROL NOW
Special Purpose Award in Special Education - QQI level 7
Blended Online

Delivered through live online webinars, pre-recorded lectures, and access to associated reading material.

  • Live & fully online
  • Archived for review
  • Live interaction with the Lecturer
  • Use code SEN200 for €200 off
HOME / Further Education - Special Purpose Award in Special Education - QQI level 7

Course Details

Application for access to the The Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award is open to Special Needs Assistants (qualified to Level 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications – NFQ) and who wish to progress their knowledge, skills, and competencies in their field to NFQ Level 7.

The Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award will also assess applicants for entry to the course who can demonstrate that they are suitably qualified with demonstrated work experience in a cognate area. These applicants will be considered for access on a case-by-case basis through established Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) mechanism.

Please click here to fill out the RPL contact form and one of our student admissions officers will be in touch.

Here is an example of what the The Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award Structure looks like:

Week 1: Webinar of 2 hours in duration – including overview of the module, overview of how the blended programme works and assessment criteria etc.

Week 2: There will be a recorded lecture for them to review. Learners will also have one hour tutor support this week via email. Learners will be directed to further assigned readings etc.

Week 3: There will be a recorded lecture for them to review. Learners will also have one hour tutor support this week via email. Learners will be directed to further assigned readings etc. Tutors may also upload a forum question which students have to engage with.

Week 4: Live Webinar of 2 hours in duration.

Week 5: On-site session where applicable. This will take place in Dublin and is dependent on student numbers. If there are insufficient numbers, a live webinar will take place. If there are sufficient numbers, then the session will also be live-streamed for those who cannot attend. This session is 2 hours in duration.

Week 6: There will be a recorded lecture for them to review. Learners will also have one hour tutor support this week. Learners will be directed to further assigned readings etc. Tutors may also upload a forum question which students have to engage with. This support hour can be via email or where necessary through TEAMS.

Week 7: Live Webinar of 2 hours in duration

Week 8: There will be a recorded lecture for them to review. Learners will also have one hour tutor support this week. Learners will be directed to further assigned readings etc. Tutors may also upload a forum question which students have to engage with. This support hour can be via email or where necessary through TEAMS.

Week 9: There will be a recorded lecture for them to review. Learners will also have one hour tutor support this week. Learners will be directed to further assigned readings etc. Tutors may also upload a forum question which students have to engage with. This support hour can be via email or where necessary through TEAMS.

*Course content is subject to review after each intake and may be updated in line with industry standards.

The Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award is continuous assessment over the three modules.

Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, Special Purpose Award

This special education teacher course is highly beneficial for other professionals in the field of social care or education, who wish to gain a deeper understanding of special education principles and practices, enhancing their ability to implement key theories in real-world settings.

This special education course is also highly beneficial for other professionals in the field of social care or education, who wish to gain a deeper understanding of special education principles and practices, enhancing their ability to implement key theories in real-world settings.

Lastly, this Certificate in Special Education QQI Level 7, is ideal for professionals currently working or seeking to work in various educational sectors, including:

  • Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Primary Schools
  • Secondary Schools
  • Further Education, Community, and Training
  • Third-Level Colleges or Universities
  • Special Schools
  • Autism Classes
  • Participants will develop the knowledge required to support the diverse needs of students, ensuring a meaningful and inclusive educational experience.

Special Purpose Award in Special Education - QQI level 7

Nicola Barry Long

Nicola Barry Long

MA Adult Learning and Teaching BA (Hons) Education, Business and Religious Studies

Nicola has graduated with an MA in Adult Learning and Teaching from University of Galway and a BA (Hons.) in Business, Religion and Education accredited by the University of Limerick. A registered secondary school teacher, Nicola’s focus is now on adult learning and providing an inclusive, supportive and enriching learning experience for all.

Nicola currently delivers the Special Education Specialism on the ECEC programme, as well as tutoring on the L5 and L6 SNA and Children With Additional Needs modules and the L7 Special Purpose Award in Special Education.

Josephine Nelan

Josephine Nelan

SNA Tutor

Josephine has worked with City College Dublin for 15 years delivering SNA level 5 and 6 QQI courses.

Josephine is a registered nurse of Intellectual Disability and have also completed training in Social Care, Supervisory Skills, Behaviour Support, Child Protection, and Patient moving and handling.

Josephine has worked for almost 30 years in all areas of special needs including education, residential, respite and day service to management level.

She is passionate about delivering a best practice focused training so that all our students can provide the best possible care and support to the children and young people they will work with in the future.

Expert Faculty

Learn from the best in your industry

Flexible Learning Options

Study your way, on your time

Career Focused Programmes

Programmes with purpose, aimed at your future

Student Support Services

Here for you, every step of the way

Get in touch

Get in touch

If you have any questions about this special education course, you can speak directly with a member of our admissions team.

Please get in touch. We’re happy to help.

FAQ

Yes. The programme is delivered through a blended learning format that includes live online classes as well as access to recorded lectures and course materials.

Yes. The course is intended for learners who already hold a Level 6 Special Needs Assisting qualification or a related qualification.

This course is designed primarily for Special Needs Assistants who already hold a Level 6 qualification. It may also be suitable for professionals working in education or care settings who want to develop their knowledge of special education.

This qualification can support professionals working in education support roles, particularly Special Needs Assistants. It helps develop the knowledge and skills needed to support students with additional learning needs in schools and educational settings.

News

A Day in the Life of an SNA: What the Role Really Involves
14.09.2026 | By City College Dublin

A Day in the Life of an SNA: What the Role Really Involves

7 Skills Needed to be an SNA – and How to Develop Them
09.09.2026 | By City College Dublin

7 Skills Needed to be an SNA – and How to Develop Them

From SNA Course to Classroom: How to Get Your First SNA Job
04.09.2026 | By City College Dublin

From SNA Course to Classroom: How to Get Your First SNA Job

SNA Level 5 vs Level 6: What Is the Difference?
27.08.2026 | By City College Dublin

SNA Level 5 vs Level 6: What Is the Difference?

It’s Never Too Late to Start Higher Education in Ireland
30.04.2026 | By Karen Higgins

It’s Never Too Late to Start Higher Education in Ireland

Is SNA a Good Job in Ireland?
30.04.2026 | By Karen Higgins

Is SNA a Good Job in Ireland?

Choosing the Right SNA Course in Ireland: Expert Advice from an SNA Tutor
15.04.2026 | By Josephine Nelan

Choosing the Right SNA Course in Ireland: Expert Advice from an SNA Tutor

City College Dublin Launches Innovative Special Education Course
24.02.2025 | By Karen Higgins

City College Dublin Launches Innovative Special Education Course

A Day in the Life of a Healthcare Support Assistant in Ireland
24.02.2025 | By City College Dublin

A Day in the Life of a Healthcare Support Assistant in Ireland

Kickstart Your Early Learning Career
24.02.2025 | By City College Dublin

Kickstart Your Early Learning Career

Special Purpose Award in Special Education - QQI level 7