Active

Primary

Thu Sep 10 2026

Thu Sep 24 2026

Mon Oct 19 2026

Fixed-term

1

Mainstream with Special Classes

Senior School

Co-Educational

Catholic

DEIS 2

30

357

Yes

An internal panel of suitable applicants may be set up to fill vacancies which may occur within a specific time period (four months for teacher posts and the duration of the school year for SNA posts) from the date on which the Board approves the successful candidate.

We expect to be recruiting for fulltime/ job share posts shortly.
Scoil Chaitríona SENIOR invites applications for the position of substitute Special Needs Assistant (SNA).
We are seeking a committed, caring and enthusiastic SNA to join our school community and work as part of a supportive, collaborative team.
The successful candidate will have a genuine commitment to supporting pupils with additional needs and to promoting their inclusion, dignity, independence, wellbeing and participation in school life.
We are looking for someone who is patient, respectful and compassionate, with the ability to develop positive and trusting relationships with pupils while working under the direction of the principal and closely with teachers, SNAs, parents/guardians and external professionals.
The successful candidate must be willing to uphold the Catholic ethos of the school.
Essential Requirements
Applicants must:
Meet the minimum educational qualification requirements for appointment as a Special Needs Assistant, as set out by the Department of Education and Youth:
a QQI Level 3 major qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications; or
a minimum of three Grade Ds in the Junior Certificate; or
an equivalent qualification.
Demonstrate excellent communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills.
Have the ability to build positive, respectful and trusting relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents/guardians and external professionals.
Demonstrate flexibility, initiative and the ability to work collaboratively within a busy primary school environment.
Show a commitment to reflective practice, ongoing professional learning and personal development.
Demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting pupils with additional needs in a manner that promotes their dignity, independence, inclusion and participation.
Desirable Experience and Attributes
The following would be considered advantageous but are not essential:
Experience supporting autistic pupils and pupils with communication differences and/or complex additional needs.
Experience supporting pupils who present with behaviours of concern.
A strong understanding of, and practical experience in, Positive Behaviour Support and Low Arousal Approaches.
Must be willing to have garda vetting every 3 years
Relevant qualifications or additional training in Special Needs Assistance, childcare, education, autism, communication, Positive Behaviour Support, Low Arousal Approaches or other areas relevant to supporting pupils with additional needs.
Experience working collaboratively with parents/guardians, teachers, SNAs and external professionals.
Experience supporting children or young people in a school, community, voluntary or care setting.
The role may involve providing appropriate personal care, toileting assistance and, where required, support with healthcare or medical needs in accordance with the individual needs of pupils and school procedures. Training and appropriate guidance will be provided for any specific care or medical support required, and the successful candidate will be supported in developing the skills necessary to carry out these responsibilities safely and respectfully.

Relevant Lived Experience
At Scoil Chaitríona SENIOR, we recognise the value that relevant lived experience can bring to this role.
Experience as a parent, family member or carer of a person with a disability or additional needs, including autism, may provide valuable insight and understanding and will be considered alongside other relevant experience, skills and qualifications.
Relevant lived experience is desirable but not essential. Applicants will not be required to have personal or caring experience of disability in order to apply.
We welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate relevant knowledge, skills and understanding through professional, voluntary, personal or caring experience.

Flexibility and Changing Requirements
The role of the Special Needs Assistant continues to evolve in response to the needs of pupils and developments in education and support provision.
The duties, responsibilities and working arrangements associated with the role may therefore be subject to change in accordance with relevant Department of Education and Youth circulars, national frameworks, guidance and policy developments, and changes to NCSE (National Council for Special Education) guidance, models and frameworks.
The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate flexibility, adaptability and a willingness to respond positively to changing requirements, while maintaining a consistent focus on the needs, dignity, wellbeing and inclusion of pupils.
A commitment to ongoing professional learning and the development of practice in response to emerging guidance and best practice will be an important aspect of the role.

What We Are Looking For
Above all, we are looking for a SNA who will contribute positively to our school community and who will approach the role with kindness, professionalism, patience and respect.
The successful candidate will be someone who is willing to learn, reflect and develop their practice, while working collaboratively to ensure that every pupil is supported to reach their potential.
If you are passionate about supporting children with additional needs and believe you can make a positive contribution to our school, we would be delighted to hear from you.