SNA Review
SNA Review
What is a SNA Review?
The NCSE Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Review is a thorough review of each, individual school’s care needs. It makes sure schools have the right SNA support to support their care, attendance and participation in school.
Key Dates
| Application Window Opens | Application Window Closes | |
|---|---|---|
| Application Window 1 | Monday 14th September 2026 | Friday 23rd October 2026 at 5pm |
| Application Window 2 | Monday 07th December 2026 | Friday 11th December 2026 at 5pm |
SNA Review
Types of SNA Review
The NCSE reviews a school’s SNA allocation.
– Where a school seeks additional SNA support, the NCSE will make an appointment to visit the school and review their overall allocation.
– On a national and three-yearly basis.
Please contact your local SENO if you have any questions about the SNA review process.
SNA REVIEW
How the SNA Review Process Works
The SNA Review Process has two phases. In phase 1, the local Special Educational Needs Organiser carries out a review which includes looking at:
– The core care needs of students in the school
– The school’s SNA deployment practice
– Details on school practices
In phase 2, the outcome of the review is considered by the Review Panel.
SNA Review
Guidelines for SNA Review
This section provides school leaders with essential resources to support the SNA Review process. It includes the latest NCSE Guidelines.
Please also see the relevant Department of Education and Youth circulars. They provide policy context and information on how the educational profile for each school is worked out.
SNA REVIEW
Parental Involvement
This section explains how special needs assistant (SNA) support is reviewed in schools and how parents can be involved in the process.
SNA Review
Department of Education & Youth Circulars
View Circular 0022/2026
Guidance document on the SNA redeployment scheme
View Circular 0039/2026
Contract of employment for special needs assistants in standard posts
View Circular 0040/2026
Contract of employment for special needs assistants in fixed term posts
View Circular 0032/2026
The role of special needs assistants in recognised primary post primary and special schools
SNA Review
Forms and Applications
Click on each block in the list below.
Special School/Special Class Summary Form This form is for schools with special classes or special school status. You can use it provide an overview of student-care needs as part of an SNA Review application.
Mainstream School Special Class Summary Form This form is for mainstream schools with special classes. You can use it to provide an overview of student-care needs as part of an SNA Review application.
Application Form Please contact your SENO for details relating to this form.
Consent Form The NCSE requires the consent of parents or guardians to access student information to plan and provide special educational and support services. Please make sure to submit a completed consent form with your SNA Review application.
NCSE School Portal
Submit your SNA Review application
Submit your application for a SNA Review through the NCSE School Portal. Ensure to attach the completed forms.
To submit an application,
– Log in to the NCSE School Portal
– Create a New support ticket
– Select SNA Review from the Type menu.
– Complete the required fields
– Click Submit
Once this request is received, NCSE will contact you, either through the portal or by phone, within ten school days.