SNA Review

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SNA Review

What is an SNA Review?

An SNA Review is a formal process of reviewing SNA allocations in schools.  
There are two types of SNA Reviews:  

– The school can request it during the application window  
– The NCSE can lead the review    
 
On this page we outline: 

– Key dates  
– The application process 
– How you can request an SNA Review 

Key Dates

Application Window Opens Application Window Closes
Monday 15th September 2025 Friday 7th November 2025 5pm
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SNA Review

Request a review of your SNA allocation

To ensure students with the greatest care needs receive the greatest support, when choosing how to use SNA support, schools are requested to use the principles of:
– Review
– Reprioritise
– Redeploy
If you believe your school SNA allocation is insufficient, you can apply for an SNA review.

Before you apply, please read the guidelines and circulars below. You can also watch our Information Webinar.

Please contact your local SENO if you have any questions about the SNA review process. 

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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.

They Outline:
– Reasons why a school can apply
– The review process in detail
– What you are expected to do to facilitate the review

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. 

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SNA Review

Department of Education & Youth Circulars

Please read the Department of Education and Youth circulars which provide policy context and information on how the educational profile for each school is worked out. 

SNA Review

SNA Deployment and SNA Review Guidelines – Information Webinar

SNA Deployment and SNA Review Guidelines 

Watch our information webinar for Mainstream and Special Schools 2025/2026 
 
It has two parts: 
1: Understanding the principles of SNA Deployment 
2: Guidance and practical support on preparing for an SNA Review 

Tools and Templates

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SNA Review

SNA Toolkit

The SNA Toolkit  supports schools to plan, deploy and review special needs assistant (SNA) supports.  
 

Inclusive Practice Reflection

The Inclusive Practice Reflection document can help schools evaluate and improve how they support students with additional needs. It is relevant particularly for applying for SNA support. 
 
You can watch our short video that explains how you can use the tool..

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 The 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 NSCE 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. 
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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.