05/06/2026
Little Warriors welcomes the publication of the new Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Workforce Development Plan.
For many years, families have highlighted the need for a broader understanding of the SNA role. While SNAs have traditionally been associated with supporting students with care, medical and physical needs, the reality is that many children also require support with transitions, emotional regulation, communication, participation, social inclusion, and accessing learning opportunities throughout the school day.
We are encouraged to see recognition within this roadmap that the role of the SNA is evolving to better reflect the diverse needs of children in our schools. Supporting a child to successfully transition into the classroom, engage with peers, participate in school activities, and feel included within their school community can be just as important as meeting their physical care needs.
The commitment to greater role clarity, enhanced professional development, improved training opportunities, workforce sustainability, and stronger collaboration within school communities is a positive step forward. We also welcome the reassurance that no SNA posts will be reduced during the 2026/27 school year, helping to provide greater certainty for children, families and schools.
As an organisation supporting neurodivergent children and their families, Little Warriors believes that every child deserves the opportunity to feel safe, included, understood and supported in school. We hope this new roadmap will help ensure that support is based on the individual needs of each child and not solely on traditional eligibility criteria.
We would like to acknowledge and thank the many dedicated SNAs across Ireland whose compassion, commitment and understanding make a real difference in the lives of children every day. Their work helps children not only access education but also build confidence, independence, friendships and a sense of belonging.
While we welcome these commitments, Little Warriors will be watching the implementation of this roadmap closely. It is essential that the Government recognises, values and respects SNAs for the vital role they play in the lives of children with additional needs. These reforms must translate into meaningful supports on the ground, ensuring SNAs are empowered, properly supported and able to continue making a positive difference for the children who rely on them every day.
Little Warriors will continue to advocate for inclusive education, meaningful supports, and a school system where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
A Workforce Development Plan for Special Needs Assistants is expected to be brought to Cabinet today by Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton, while a long-awaited redeployment scheme for SNAs is also expected to be published.
