Special Needs Assisting

Course details

This course is intended for learners who would like to extend their knowledge and become fully aware of the education provision for children with additional needs in Ireland.

Course Description

Overview

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence in the theory and practice underpinning the education and care of those who present with special educational needs to enable the learner to assist in the provision of this education and care.

The Benefits to Learners of this Valuable Qualification

• Be fully aware of the education provision for children with additional needs in Ireland.
• Explore interventions and design activities for children with special educational needs
• Become familiar with curriculum implementation for children with additional needs
• Explore the learners own attitudes, values, beliefs and assumptions in relation to working with and on behalf of children with additional needs.
• Develop the academic and vocational language, literacy and numeracy skills related to Early Childhood Care and Education through the medium of the indicative content.
• Take responsibility for his/her own learning.

Requirements

The requirements for entry to the Special Needs Assisting Level 6 Minor Award are, Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent qualifications or FETAC/QQI Level 4 Certificate and/or relevant life and work experiences.

Work Experience
The course is complemented and consolidated through practical work experience. Work experience is a mandatory module for this award; therefore, students should be aware that they will be required to carry out 20 hours work experience outside of scheduled class time in order to satisfy the requirements of the FETAC/QQI work experience module.

It is recommended that each learner should secure a work experience placement in their locality that does not conflict with class time or their own personal/work commitments prior to commencing the course to alleviate any pressure once the course has commenced.

The work experience required to complete this Special Needs Assisting course will count towards the Work Experience Module (four working weeks) required for the full FETAC/QQI Childcare Certificate.

Garda Vetting
Forus Training is registered with the Garda vetting Unit and is now in a position to offer students a Garda vetting service. There may be a delay in processing applications with the Garda Vetting Unit “ we advise you to complete the form on registration.

Course

The following content will be covered in this course:

• Evaluate the provision of education for people with special educational needs with reference to current legislation
• Assess the various educational options available in Ireland for people with special educational needs
• Examine relevant theories, skills and processes relevant to curriculum implementation
• Explore the differences between integration and inclusion
• Organise learning opportunities in order to promote independence and responsibility
• Evaluate the importance of the multidisciplinary team in devising individual Education Plans
• Analyse skills that can be used to aid the teacher in the administration of the national curriculum
• Assess interventions and behavior management techniques that may be used in the learning environment
• Manage meaningful activities that are suited to peoples needs and connect with their experiences and interests in the learning environment
• Identify strategies for dealing with stressors within the work place
• Provide assistance in the provision of education and care for individuals that present with special educational needs
• Reflect on own attitudes, values, beliefs and assumptions in relation to working with and on behalf of people who present with disabilities.

Assessment

The assessment process includes a combination of module appropriate assessment procedures which will facilitate the assessment of learning outcomes of this course. These methods will include continuous assessment processes such as:
Assessment Format: Project 50% / Skills Demonstration 50%
Project – A project is usually carried out over an extended period of time. Projects may involve research, require investigation of a topic, issue or problem or may involve process such as a design task, a performance or practical activity or production of an artefact or event.
Skills Demonstration – A skills demonstration is used to assess a wide range of practical based learning outcomes including practical skills and knowledge. A skills demonstration will require the learner to complete a task or series of tasks that demonstrate a range of skills.
Grading: Pass 50% – 64% / Merit 65% – 79%/ Distinction 80% – 100%

Accreditation

FETAC/QQI “ Special Needs Assisting Level 6 Minor award
Awarded by - (QQI) Quality & Qualifications Ireland

Progression

On successful completion of this Special Needs Assisting course, the participant will have achieved one of eight modules which lead to a Major Award in Early Childhood Care & Education Level 6