Level 5 Special Needs Assistant Course
Purpose
This course is designed to provide learners with:
- An understanding of the context of special needs
- Acquire the knowledge, skills and aptitudes to work effectively as a special needs assistant (under direction).
Course Objectives
- Satisfy the training needs of those working or volunteering as a Special Needs Assistant.
- Develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the role of the Special Needs Assistant.
- Promote good practice amongst those working with Special Needs Children.
Course Syllabus
- The role of the Special Needs Assistant
- Equal opportunities and Child Development
- Physical and Intellectual Disabilities in Children
- History of Special Needs Service Provision in Ireland
- Legislation and National Policies
- Emotional and practical implications on a child and their families
- Resources and Services available to special needs children
- Health and Safety Procedures
- Child Protection Policies
- Effective communication methods e.g. communication aids
- Relating to other stakeholders
- Special needs assisting skills
- Duties of a Special Needs Assistant (child and teacher)
- Principles of good practice
Assessment Structure Skills Demonstration
Candidates are required to demonstrate specific skills and aptitudes required to work safely and effectively as part of a team under direction in a special needs assistant setting.
Each candidate is required to complete two skill demonstrations that have been devised from the specific learning outcomes of the course.
Learner Record
Candidates are required to compile a reflective personal record which details:
• The candidates’ experiences and challenges
• The values associated with working as a Special Needs Assistant
• The identification of personal learning and development over the duration of the programme
Project (Case Study ×2)
Candidates are required to complete two comprehensive case studies which demonstrate their:
• Understanding and application of concepts in the context of children with special needs and their care and provision
• Ability to analyse, evaluate, reflect, draw conclusions and make recommendations
Awards
- FETAC Level 5 Component Certificate in Special Needs Assisting
- FETAC Level 5 Component Certificate in Understanding Special Needs
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