Getting Started Guide – How to Change Career to Become an SNA

Are you thinking about a career change to special needs assisting and wondering where you can truly make a difference?

If you’re compassionate, patient, and want to work in a meaningful role supporting children and young people, becoming a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) might be the perfect next step.

This guide is designed to help you understand what the role involves, why it's a rewarding career path, and how you can get started—whether you're coming from retail, administration, healthcare, education, or a completely different background.

What Does an SNA Do?

A Special Needs Assistant works in schools to support students with additional learning needs, physical disabilities, or behavioural challenges. You’ll work alongside teachers, helping to ensure every child gets equal access to education.

Typical tasks include:

• Providing one-to-one or group support
• Assisting with mobility or communication needs
• Supporting social, emotional, and behavioural development
• Helping with personal care or classroom participation

You are not expected to teach—but you are central to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environment.

Why Make the Change?

A Meaningful Impact

Many people change to an SNA role because they want to do something that matters. If you're someone who finds joy in helping others, particularly children, this role offers daily opportunities to make a difference.

Cork native Mairead O’Keeffe-Dumoulin is working as a Room Leader in a local playschool and afterschool following a successful career change through studying at Portobello Institute.

Before turning to education, Mairead worked in Quality Assurance and Control in a cosmetic manufacturing company. Armed with a Master’s in Food Science, she had professional success in Belgium and later as a Laboratory Manager with a French cosmetic manufacturer. However, a twist came in February 2022 when she faced redundancy. 

Facing a pivotal juncture in her life, she sought the guidance of a life coach, determined to redefine her professional trajectory.

Mairead’s journey of reinvention brought her to Portobello Institute, a decision influenced by positive reviews and feedback from a former colleague.

She embarked on SNA Level 5 & 6 combined courses and enjoyed it so much she subsequently pursued the Early Learning and Care Level 6 course. She discovered a passion for working with children and hasn't looked back.

“I did follow a passion and that passion was to make a difference however big or small to somebody’s life. I am proud of my achievements, sometimes when I explain what work I am currently doing and what I used to do in the past and explain that I underwent a type of ‘transformation’, I think that I give courage to others who may be thinking of a career change,” she said.

High Demand

Ireland has seen a steady increase in demand for SNAs in both primary and secondary schools.

The Department of Education reports thousands of SNA roles across the country, with new roles added every year. It’s a career that offers stability and purpose.

Family-Friendly Schedule

Working school hours and having regular holidays makes this career especially appealing for parents or those seeking better work-life balance.

Accessible Entry Route

You don’t need a teaching degree. With the right qualifications—typically QQI Level 5 and 6 in Special Needs Assisting—you can become job-ready in under a year.

Who Can Become an SNA?

SNAs come from all walks of life. Many were previously:

• Retail workers or customer service professionals
• Healthcare assistants or carers
• Childcare workers
• Stay-at-home parents returning to the workforce
• Administrators or office staff
• Early years educators

If you have empathy, patience, good communication, and the desire to support children, you already have the foundation.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

To work as an SNA in Ireland, schools typically require:

• QQI Level 5 in Special Needs Assisting.

• QQI Level 6 is often preferred and strengthens your employment prospects.

• Find out more about a booking package with Level 5 and Level 6 together here.

Many people choose to complete both qualifications in a single academic year, and several providers offer flexible online or blended learning to suit those working full-time or managing family commitments.

What’s the Job Market Like?

• Thousands of SNAs are employed in schools through the Department of Education.
• New SNA allocations are announced each year, with strong growth projected.
• Roles are available nationwide, especially in growing towns and cities.

Once qualified, SNAs can apply for roles directly through school advertisements, EducationPosts.ie, or JobAlert.ie. Some graduates also go on to study further in early childhood care and education or inclusive education and SEN.

Tips for Getting Started

1. Explore the Role
   Talk to people in the profession or shadow a school setting if possible. Learn more about the emotional and practical realities of the job.

2. Choose a Reputable Course
   Ensure your course is QQI-accredited, with modules focused on inclusive education, special needs, and classroom strategies.

3. Volunteer or Gain Experience
   Volunteering in a school, community centre, or with youth groups can boost your CV and confidence.

4. Connect with Others
   Join SNA forums or Facebook groups. It’s a great way to get advice, share job leads, and hear from others who’ve made the same leap. Learn about the role of an SNA through blogs and forums.

Where to Study?

Portobello Institute offers flexible, accredited SNA courses at both Level 5 and Level 6, designed for adult learners and career changers. You’ll benefit from:

• Experienced tutors with real classroom insight
• Online learning with live support
• Clear pathways into employment or further education
• Impressive qualification to shine in interviews

Final Thoughts

Changing careers is a big decision but if your goal is to find meaning, stability, and a role that helps others, becoming an SNA could be one of the most rewarding moves you’ll ever make.

Whether you're 25 or 55, it's never too late to start something that matters. Visit our Special Needs Assisting faculty for more.