How SNAs Can Foster a Growth Mindset in Students

Supporting children to believe in their ability to learn, grow, and overcome challenges is one of the most powerful things an educator can do. For Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), this means helping every child - regardless of ability - to build confidence, resilience, and a positive approach to learning.

At Portobello Institute, we believe that fostering a growth mindset is at the heart of inclusive education. It empowers students to embrace challenges, value effort, and see mistakes as part of the learning process. Whether you are beginning your journey as an SNA or developing your professional practice, understanding how to nurture a growth mindset is key to supporting student success.

Step 1: Understanding What a Growth Mindset Is

The concept of a growth mindset is based on the belief that intelligence and ability can be developed through effort, perseverance, and feedback.

Students with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are set and unchangeable, while those with a growth mindset understand that learning is a process and that progress comes from persistence and hard work.

As an SNA, you play a vital role in shaping how students think about their own abilities. Through encouragement, language, and everyday interactions, you can help children to see challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles.

At Portobello Institute, our Special Needs Assisting courses (QQI Level 5 and Level 6) help you understand the psychology behind learning and behaviour, giving you practical tools to promote positive attitudes and motivation in students.

Step 2: Encouraging Effort and Progress Over Perfection

One of the most effective ways SNAs can foster a growth mindset is by focusing on effort and progress, rather than perfection or immediate success.

In the classroom, this might look like:

• Praising persistence and problem-solving rather than quick answers
• Using language that reinforces improvement (“You worked hard on that challenge!”)
• Helping students reflect on what strategies helped them succeed
• Encouraging small, achievable goals that build confidence over time

When you study at Portobello Institute, you’ll explore how positive reinforcement, motivation, and scaffolding can support students with additional needs - helping you to become a reflective practitioner who understands how children learn best.

Step 3: Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

A safe, inclusive learning environment is essential for building confidence and resilience. Children are more likely to take risks and try new things when they feel supported and understood.

SNAs can create this environment by:

• Building trusting relationships with students
• Modelling patience and empathy
• Providing calm, consistent support during challenges
• Encouraging students to ask questions and make mistakes without fear of criticism

Through Portobello Institute’s blended learning model, you’ll gain both theoretical insight and practical experience during your work placement - giving you the confidence to apply inclusive, growth-oriented approaches in real classroom settings.

Step 4: Teaching the Language of Growth

The words we use as educators have a powerful impact. Using growth mindset language helps children reframe how they see learning and effort.

For example:

• Instead of “I can’t do this”, try “You can’t do this yet - but you’re learning.”
• Instead of “You’re so smart”, say “You worked really hard on that.”
• Replace “That’s wrong” with “Let’s look at what we can try differently.”

Small shifts in communication can transform how students view their abilities. In your studies at Portobello Institute, you’ll learn how to adapt communication strategies to meet diverse needs, ensuring every student feels capable, valued, and supported.

Step 5: Modelling a Growth Mindset Yourself

Children learn from what they see as much as from what they are told. By modelling resilience, positivity, and curiosity yourself, you show students that learning is a lifelong process.

As an SNA, you might share moments where you learn something new, admit when something is difficult, and demonstrate how to overcome setbacks.

At Portobello Institute, our tutors and academic mentors model this same philosophy - supporting you to develop your own confidence, independence, and reflective practice throughout your studies.

Step 6: Continuing Your Professional Development

Becoming an effective SNA who fosters growth mindset principles is an ongoing journey. Professional development not only deepens your understanding but also allows you to make a greater impact on students’ learning experiences.

Portobello Institute offers clear progression routes for those working in education and care. After completing your QQI Level 5 or Level 6 in Special Needs Assisting, you may choose to advance into related fields such as Early Childhood Education, Inclusive Education, or Psychology.

Our flexible study options, expert tutors, and focus on practical experience ensure that you are fully supported as you continue to grow - just as you inspire growth in others.

Begin Your SNA Journey with Portobello Institute

Fostering a growth mindset begins with believing in the potential of every learner - including yourself.

At Portobello Institute, we are committed to helping aspiring and practising SNAs develop the knowledge, empathy, and confidence to make a lasting difference in children’s lives.

Our Special Needs Assisting courses combine expert-led theory with real-world practice, giving you the skills to create supportive, inclusive, and inspiring learning environments.

Find Out More

For more information, visit our faculty page or get in touch with our admissions team who can give you personalised advice and support.