Lack of work as an SNA

montybeme

I am a 31 year old male.I am looking for some advice regarding working as a special needs assistant .
Last year, I completed a QQI level 5 Early Childcare and Education qualification. I obtained this qualification with a full distinction and was awarded best in my class. Although the course was not specific to special needs, it did have a module Children with Additional Needs (5N2396). My course co-coordinator also informed me that many ex students went straight into employment as an SNA after qualifying.
I have good experience working in childcare settings. Prior to my course I was working as a childcare worker in 3 local preschool settings for almost a year. I have been working in an afterschool setting for the past year and have also worked as a substitute SNA in a local primary school.
However, since obtaining my qualification,I seem to be having trouble getting work or even interviews for SNA positions.
Unfortunately, I am unsure as to the exact reason for this.I have applied for several positions as an SNA but all of my applications to primary schools have been unsuccessful. I was wondering if anyone may have any knowledge/advice for someone in my position.
Do you think I just a higher level of qualification? Is the current climate for SNA work poor/extremely competitive right now?


Any suggestions/information you may have is greatly appreciated.

byhookorbycrook

SNA hourd have been cut, where a child once had an SNA all to themselves, now they have "access" which can mean several children sharing one SNA.Schools also tend to re-employ SNAs that have been in the school and know how the school works as well as having proven themselves, can you do some subbing or even volunteering?

Lady_North1

It's the time of the year when posts will start to be advertised. Register on edposts for emails when jobs are posted. Apply for everything. Unfortunately jobs have been cut but there are still jobs out there.
Your qualifications should be sufficient. Don't give up.

montybeme

byhookorbycrook wrote: »

SNA hourd have been cut, where a child once had an SNA all to themselves, now they have "access" which can mean several children sharing one SNA.Schools also tend to re-employ SNAs that have been in the school and know how the school works as well as having proven themselves, can you do some subbing or even volunteering?

I left in c.vs to a huge amount of local schools but never heard anything back. I am just subbing very occasionally in one of the schools where I did my work experience.

montybeme

Lady_North1 wrote: »

It's the time of the year when posts will start to be advertised. Register on edposts for emails when jobs are posted. Apply for everything. Unfortunately jobs have been cut but there are still jobs out there.
Your qualifications should be sufficient. Don't give up.

I've literally applied to dozens of positions and for some reason I dont even get called for an interview.

Moonbeam

Initially it might be subbing work.
Apply to all the schools and pre schools in your area.
educationposts.ie
Are you on any of the pre-school teachers FB groups?