SNA Review
SNA Review
What is an SNA Review?
An SNA Review is a formal process through which a school evaluates its current allocation of Special Needs Assistant (SNA) support and applies for adjustments based on the evolving care needs of its students.
Key Dates
| Application Window Opens | Application Window Closes |
|---|---|
| Monday 15th September 2025 | Friday 24th October 2025 |
Request a review of your SNA allocation
The Department of Education Circular 30/2014 outlines the role of the SNA which has not changed. In 2020, the Department of Education Circular 30/2020 advised schools of the revised arrangements for the allocation of SNA support to mainstream classes. Schools are requested to use the principles of review, reprioritise and redeploy to ensure those with the greatest care needs receive the greatest support.
Special schools and Mainstream schools can now apply for an SNA review in their school. The SNA review guidelines linked below detail the review process. The window for applications commences on Monday, September 15th and closes Friday, October 24th. The SENO Support Presentation is now replaced by a Self-Guided online webinar that schools can access at their own convenience.
Please contact your local SENO if you have any questions in relation to SNA review process.
Guidelines
This section provides school leaders with essential resources to support the SNA Review process. It includes the latest NCSE Guidelines, which outline eligibility, procedures, and expectations for schools seeking a review of their SNA allocation. See also the relevant Department of Education circulars, offering policy context and definitions of care needs.
Guidelines for SNA Review
NCSE Guidelines for the Review of SNA Allocations in both Mainstream and Special Schools 2025/26
Department of Education & Youth Circulars
View the circulars that inform the SNA Review process.
Information Webinar
SNA Deployment and SNA Review Guidelines
Information webinar for Mainstream and Special Schools
2025/2026
Tools and Templates
SNA Review
SNA Toolkit
The SNA Toolkit is a comprehensive resource developed by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to support schools in the effective planning, deployment, and review of Special Needs Assistant (SNA) supports.
Inclusive Practice Reflection
The Inclusive Practice Reflection is a structured tool developed by the NCSE to help schools evaluate and improve how they support students with additional needs, particularly in the context of applying for SNA support.
Forms and Applications
SNA Review
Application Form
Please consult your SENO for details relating to this form.
SNA Review
Consent Form
Parental/Guardian consent is required by NCSE to access student information for the purpose of planning and implementing the provision of special educational and support services. Please ensure that a completed consent form is submitted with your SNA Review application.
SNA Review
Special School/Special Class Summary Form
The Special School /Special Class Summary Form is a document used by schools with special classes or designated special school status to provide a structured overview of student care needs as part of an SNA Review application.
NCSE School Portal
Submit your application for a SNA Review through the NCSE School Portal. Ensure to attach the completed forms.
NCSE School Portal
Submit your SNA Review application
To submit an application,
– Login 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.