In recent years phenomenal changes have occurred with respect to provision for students with special educational needs (SEN) within the education system in Ireland. To respond to developments in special educational needs and inclusive education and to enhance best practice in schools, the Department of Education (DE) supports and funds a one-year full time Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education which is intended to provide a recognised Postgraduate qualification for Special Education Teachers (SET), teachers in special schools, special classes, and other relevant educational settings. Therefore, eligible teachers have no fees or registration charges, and full substitution cover is provided.The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education at ATU St Angelas is delivered by the team in the Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity (CSENID) within the School of Education and is designed for teachers who are eligible to apply under the terms of the DE. This teacher professional learning programme blends extensive theory and practice in relation to special and inclusive education. There are no written examinations and teachers will be assessed based on full attendance at the programme venue, engagement with course content and activities, written assignments and assessed Practicum in their schools/centres. The programme leads to the award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education and is accredited by Atlantic Technological University.Substitution:Substitution will be allowed while teachers are attending the block release element of the Programme - please review the circular for further information.The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education Circular (0035/2025)?is now available to download hereand as Gaeilge hereApplication ProcessEligible teachers, nominated by their school authorities who wish to be considered for admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education programme should apply by following the steps involved in the application process. Detailed instructions are provided: Application InstructionsBriefly, the steps are as follows:1.Complete the MS Form Application which is available here: MS Form - Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Special Education . 2.Download the relevant Consent Form?below and ensure that it is signed by the Principal of the School and Chair of the Board of Management.- Consent Form Post-Primary School PGSE 2025-2026- Consent Form Primary School PGSE 2025-2026- Consent Form Special Schools PGSE 2025-20263.Apply for Entry to the Programme by clicking the Apply Now tab. This will bring you directly to the online application platform.4.Upload all required documentation as outlined in the instructions.
| Course Location | Sligo Town, Sligo |
| Course Category | Special Needs Assistant Training, Education & Teaching |
| Course Type | Blended Learning - Mix of Classroom & Online |
| Course Qualification | Postgraduate Diploma |
| Course Duration | 1 year |
| Course Time | Full-time |
| Entry Requirements | To be eligible, applicants must be graduates and qualified teachers registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland.?? Additional Requirements Garda Vetting/police clearance is required for this programme. |
| Career Path | This programme is designed for teachers who are eligible to apply under the terms of the Department of Education. The programme is for registered teachers who are currently working as Special Education Teachers in recognised primary schools including special schools and recognised post-primary schools. Applications are also invited from qualified teachers employed by ETBs as literacy/numeracy tutors in Youthreach, Community Projects or in the Prison Service. |
This course is free/ funded under the Springboard+ Initiative.
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