Making sense of the news. What the SNA industrial action really means for you.

Making sense of the news. What the SNA industrial action really means for you

If you've been following Irish education news over the last few weeks you've likely seen headlines that special needs assistants (SNA’S) are taking industrial action, balloting against proposed government circulars and entering a national work to rule

When you are thinking about training as an SNA, seeing words like work to rule, dispute and rejected circulars can make you pause. You might wonder, is this sector stable? Is this still a good career path? What does this mean if I'm looking to qualify now?

We're here to cut through the jargon breakdown exactly what's happening and explain why this moment is actually good news for future SNAs.

What's happening? The industrial action explained.

Here's a quick breakdown of where things stand

1. The proposed changes (Circular 0032/2026): The Department of education proposes a new framework intended to update SNA roles, training rules, and working hours.
2. The Democratic Vote Forsa union members voted against accepting the new terms in a consultation ballot, asking the department for clear job protections, better working terms and no misuse of extra hours
3. The Work to Rule Action: because the new proposed rules were rejected SNAs continue working on the established framework (circular 0030/2014) and the union instructed members to begin a target work to rule.

What Work to Rule actually means in practice:

It's essential to understand what this action does and doesn't do in schools

• In classroom support is 100% active SNA are doing their core work in classroom every day, supporting students with care and support needs as normal
• Boycotting administrative duties: the industrial action specifically target non-core expectations, SNAs refuse to perform tasks under the rejected circular declining unpaid overtime outside contractual hours and boycotting controversial “72 hour” post- school obligations

This is this is reassuring news for future SNA’s

If you are planning to train and enter the workforce this situation actually works in your favour for three big reasons.

1. You enter a profession that protects its people. You will be stepping into a regulated sector where working conditions can't be eroded silently. You are entering a strong workforce and effectively actively advocates for proper role boundaries and clear job security.
2. Demand for qualified SNAs is an all-time high. Industrial discussions do not change the foundational reality: Ireland is expanding its special education system at record speed, With special classes and special school places opening nationwide, school principles are actively looking for qualified job ready candidates
3. Qualifications matter more than ever. As a sector professionalises, schools are prioritising candidates with up-to-date recognised qualifications who understand both practical classroom support and inclusive educational principles.

Start your training with confidence

Navigating changing educational landscapes requires training that gives you both practical skills and industry clarity. Our QQI accredited Special Needs Assisting Courses at level 5 and 6 give you the tools and practical confidence principles look for when hiring.

• We offer flexible online in the evening learning options designed around your schedule
• Comprehensive training in Special education including; Irish education legislation, inclusion strategies and understanding care and support needs of children.
• Dedicated support our live trainers will support and guide you every step of the way

don't let the policy debates delay your goal of stepping into a rewarding and secure career!