Sir, – I welcome the pause in proposed changes affecting special needs assistants (SNAs) in Irish schools. It provides an important opportunity to reflect on the real and lasting value SNAs bring to children, schools and the wider education system.
From a value-for-money perspective alone, SNAs deliver exceptional impact. They play a vital role in helping children regulate emotions, develop social skills and access the curriculum in a meaningful way. The support of an SNA can be the difference between a child feeling safe and included, or becoming disengaged and anxious.
Their work supports not only children with identified needs, but also classroom teachers, enabling teaching and learning to continue effectively for all pupils. The absence of this support would place significant strain on schools and would ultimately prove far more costly, financially and socially.
As discussions continue, I hope policymakers will listen closely to the voices of schools, parents and professionals who witness daily the quiet, invaluable work SNAs do. Their contribution represents not only good educational practice but sound investment in the wellbeing and future of our children. – Yours, etc,
RM Block
SARAH KELLY,
Special education teacher and parent,
Kilrush,
Co Clare.
