New SNA Redeployment Scheme: A Major Step Forward for Inclusion and Workforce Stability
A significant development in the Irish education system has been announced by Minister for Education Helen McEntee and Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, Michael Moynihan — a new Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Redeployment Scheme is officially in the works.
This long-awaited initiative, which will be operated by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), is designed to support both SNAs and the students they work with by enabling experienced SNAs to be redeployed to schools where their support is needed most.
What Is the SNA Redeployment Scheme?
For the first time, SNAs who are in posts no longer required due to falling enrolments, changing demographics, or reduced care needs, will have the opportunity to be transferred to other schools with vacant SNA posts.
This ensures:
- Job security for SNAs whose roles may be at risk
- Retention of skilled professionals within the education system
- Continuity of care and support for children with additional needs
What It Means for Our SNA Students
For learners currently completing SNA training, this announcement offers welcome reassurance and motivation. It sends a clear signal that the government is investing in long-term roles for SNAs and building a more stable, sustainable workforce.
Here’s how this development positively impacts our SNA students:
- Greater job security post-qualification, knowing that a redeployment option exists if a school post becomes redundant
- Increased demand for qualified SNAs as the system becomes more responsive to emerging needs in schools
- Recognition of the profession’s value, reinforcing that SNAs are a vital part of inclusive education — not just temporary support staff
- Encouragement to remain in the sector, knowing career pathways and workforce development are being prioritised
This initiative helps bridge the gap between training and employment, creating a more confident and supported entry into the education sector for newly qualified SNAs.
Why This Matters
There are currently over 23,000 SNAs working across Ireland’s schools — both mainstream and special education — playing a critical role in the educational journey of students with special educational needs.
Minister McEntee emphasised the importance of preserving the skills and experience of SNAs, stating that this scheme will ensure those professionals continue to make an impact where needed:
“This Scheme will increase job security for SNAs, and encourage prospective SNAs to enter the workforce. Crucially, it will benefit children and school communities by ensuring that the SNA workforce is agile.”
Supporting a Growing Need
The Redeployment Scheme forms part of a broader vision — it’s being introduced alongside the first SNA Workforce Development Plan, expected later this year. This plan will focus on building capacity and strengthening the overall support structure for children with significant care needs in Irish schools.
Minister Moynihan added:
“SNAs are integral to how children with additional needs are supported in our schools. This scheme ensures they can stay within the workforce and continue their valuable work.”
Inclusion in Action
As Ireland continues to prioritise inclusive education, this scheme represents a practical and positive move. It not only keeps experienced SNAs in classrooms but also ensures that children with additional needs receive consistent, person-centred support.
John Kearney, CEO of NCSE, summed it up well:
“The scheme ensures valuable skills are not lost as the level of need shifts between schools.”
Final Thoughts
The new SNA Redeployment Scheme marks a significant step toward a more equitable, responsive, and supportive education system. For our students training to become SNAs, it offers a stronger sense of career stability, opportunity, and recognition. By valuing and retaining the people who make inclusion possible every day, Ireland is investing in a future where every child can thrive — regardless of need.
Stay tuned for updates on the SNA Workforce Development Plan and further developments in special education policy.
