ADVERT ID 258972
Special Needs Assistant
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MAIN DETAILS
Status:
Active
Level:
Primary
Date Posted:
Fri Jul 17 2026
Application Closing Date:
Fri Aug 21 2026
Commencement Date:
Mon Sep 14 2026
Status of Post:
Part-Time
Number of Vacancies:
1
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SCHOOL DETAILS
School Type:
Mainstream with Special Classes
School Structure:
Vertical
Gender:
Co-Educational
School Patronage:
Catholic
Total No. of Teaching Staff:
29
Current Enrolment:
383
Droichead school:
Yes
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POST DETAILS
Panel of Applicants:
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.
Additional Information:
Merlin Woods Primary School is inviting applications for a part-time Special Needs Assistant (SNA) position, 0.5 post = 16 hours per week.
The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong work ethic, must work effectively as part of a team, and must show a commitment to ongoing professional learning, reflective practice, and supporting the diverse needs of pupils.
Essential Requirements
The successful applicant must have:
*Significant experience supporting pupils with Autism, communication differences, and complex needs.
*A strong understanding and practical application of Positive Behaviour Support and Low Arousal Approaches.
*Experience supporting pupils who present with behaviours of concern.
*Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
*A commitment to reflective practice and ongoing professional development.
*The ability to build positive, respectful relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents, and external professionals.
*Flexibility, initiative, and the ability to work collaboratively within a busy school environment.
Please Note: In accordance with Department of Education regulations and the operational needs of the school, Special Needs Assistants may be assigned to any SNA role within the school at the discretion of the Principal.
Conditions of Appointment
Appointment is subject to:
*Satisfactory Garda Vetting.
*Occupational Health Screening.
*Completion of TUSLA Child Safeguarding Training.
*A valid Statutory Declaration.
*Completion of the Form of Undertaking upon offer of employment.
This position is subject to NCSE allocation and SENO review.
Additional Information
*Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
* Applications via email only to merlinwoodsvacancy@gmail.com
The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong work ethic, must work effectively as part of a team, and must show a commitment to ongoing professional learning, reflective practice, and supporting the diverse needs of pupils.
Essential Requirements
The successful applicant must have:
*Significant experience supporting pupils with Autism, communication differences, and complex needs.
*A strong understanding and practical application of Positive Behaviour Support and Low Arousal Approaches.
*Experience supporting pupils who present with behaviours of concern.
*Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
*A commitment to reflective practice and ongoing professional development.
*The ability to build positive, respectful relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents, and external professionals.
*Flexibility, initiative, and the ability to work collaboratively within a busy school environment.
Please Note: In accordance with Department of Education regulations and the operational needs of the school, Special Needs Assistants may be assigned to any SNA role within the school at the discretion of the Principal.
Conditions of Appointment
Appointment is subject to:
*Satisfactory Garda Vetting.
*Occupational Health Screening.
*Completion of TUSLA Child Safeguarding Training.
*A valid Statutory Declaration.
*Completion of the Form of Undertaking upon offer of employment.
This position is subject to NCSE allocation and SENO review.
Additional Information
*Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
* Applications via email only to merlinwoodsvacancy@gmail.com
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APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Letter of Application
- Copy of Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees
- Standard Application Form for SNA Posts - in English
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Applications may be submitted by
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Roll Number:
20350P
Apply To:
County:
Galway
Website:
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