Volunteering as an SNA

NeonCookies

Hi everyone,

I want to do Educational Psychology and to build up experience (min. 2 yearsto get on to the course), I'm hoping to do some voluntary (yet almost full time) SNA work. I'm currently abroad teaching English, I have a degree in Psychology, and will be doing a FETAC course in Special Needs Assisting when I get home to prepare me.

What is the situation like for people who want to volunteer like this in schools? I know a lot of SNA jobs have been cut, so I'm guessing there are a lot of children who had them, and now don't. Would schools jump at the opportunity for a volunteer? Albeit one with no actual experience yet, but enthusiasm to learn.

I'm going to get in contact with my own primary school where I had a good relationship with teachers and the principal (although over 10 years ago at this point!) My cousin is also a primary school teacher, and I did some voluntary work there a few years ago so she said she might be able to organize something for me. I'd just like to know personal experiences in case these don't work out.

Also, I know I'll have to get Garda Vetting. Does anyone know the wait times for this at the moment? Any other advice appreciated, thanks

byhookorbycrook

Unlikely you'll be given SNA work, as for a child who needs help, someone short-term is not ideal. You could approach the school however and express your interest in special needs in particular and a principal might allow you to help in a class where there are children with special needs (most classes these days.)

NeonCookies

Thanks for the reply. Yea, I can see how short-term work isn't viable - once you're trained in fully and the child gets used to you, you're gone. I am however planning to do this relatively long term. As in, at least a full school year, and likely two. I need two years experience for my course. Classroom assistant work as you mentioned is also useful for me, as long as I'm in direct contact with special needs.

The exact wording of the entry requirements:

Applicants must also have at least two years professional experience, excluding placement experience gained as part of acquiring professional qualifications. Periods of continuous professional experience of less than three months full-time employment will not be considered as counting towards this two years minimum requirement.

- so they do expect serious work, not a month or two here and there. Relevant experience involves working with children in educational, social care, community, childcare or health settings.

I think you're right the best approach would be to talk to the principal and see if he/she can offer me something. Get my foot in the door.

Lisha

Garda vetting can take a while, might be worth calling your local (home) garda station before you come home,

maybe look at creche s for experience if Nat school does not work out. You ll have kids up to 5 all day and kids over 5 before and after school,

best of luck

NeonCookies

Hi, thanks for the reply!

Yea, I'd heard Garda Vetting can take a while alright so my mum popped into the local garda station for me and they told her they can start the process if I go to their website and fill in a form.

But on their website it says that you need to fill in a form given to you by the organization (i.e. the school) you're volunteering with.http://www.garda.ie/Controller.aspx?Page=1535&Lang=1 So I'm confused now...? I might as in the Volunteerism forum, they might have some experience with it!

gabsdot40

You could try volunteering in a preschool.

trace51

Unfortunately you cannot get your own Garda vetting, it can only be done through an organisation, I tried last year! Have you thought about ABA schools? they sometimes take volunteers

muckisluck

Go for it. Most schools would be delighted to get someone like you particularly as there are specifications whereby they know they will be able to rely on you. The school will apply for the garda vetting and they can take you on pending receipt of the outcome.