Special Needs Assisting and Children with Additional Needs QQI 5
Programme Aim
The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the opportunity to enable the learner to acquire the knowledge, skill, and competence to work under supervision in a variety of community care settings and or to progress to further and or higher education and training.
Target Award
QQI Community Care – 5M2786
Start Date: 08-01-2025 Hours/week: 04 Hrs 00 Mins Duration: 16 weeks
NFQ Level 4 or equivalent when accessing a Level 5 programme.
CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English
Mature learner entry requirements available via the local ETB pathway
Additional requirements may apply to non-EU/EEA Applicants and may be subject to full international fees (Please refer to Information for International Learners) *Each provider may have additional requirements, not outlined above.
Age Requirements
Minimum statutory school leaving age (16+)
Learning Aptitude
Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Previous Experience
Applicants must be able to demonstrate a moderate range of knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to the course, be able to work with responsibility and demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative.
| Module | Award | Body |
|---|---|---|
| Special Needs Assisting | Special Needs Assisting (5N1786) | QQI |
| Children With Additional Needs | Children with Additional Needs (5N2396) | QQI |
On completion of this programme learners will have the skills, knowledge and competencies to work independently and under supervision in a range of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) settings and or to progress to higher education and training.
1. Explore the role and responsibilities, qualities and skills of the Special Needs Assistant (SNA)
2. Examine the relevant legislation in relation to disability
3. Explore the rights of children with disabilities in relation to personal autonomy, participation
and decision making
4. Relate effectively and appropriately to children who present with additional needs
5. To enable the learner to select and apply care routines in feeding, toileting and general
hygiene
6. Maintain appropriate relationships with children, parents, primary carers, teachers and
other members of the multi-disciplinary team.
7. To assist the learner in working effectively with children who present with disabilities under
the direction of the classroom teacher
8. Assist children with disabilities in a range of activities, ensuring equality of opportunity
through working in a safe and professional manner
9. 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. (see
Aistear/Siolta guidelines from birth to 6).
10. To assist the learner to develop the academic and vocational language, literacy and
numeracy skills related to Early Childhood Care and Education through the medium of the
indicative content
11. To enable the learner to take responsibility for his/her own learning
Employability Statement
The successful completion of the QQI Level 5 award in Early Childhood Care and Education will enable applicants to work independently and under supervision in a range of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) settings.