SUBBING AS AN SNA
Subbing as an SNA in Ireland can be a very rewarding experience.
Here are some tips to help you succeed and make the most of your substitute SNA role:
- Be Prepared: Familiarise yourself with the school's policies, procedures, and expectations for substitute SNAs. Be ready to adapt quickly to different classroom environments and student needs.
- Communicate with Regular SNAs: If possible, communicate with the regular SNAs or special education teachers in the school before starting your subbing assignment. They can provide valuable insights into the students' individual needs, routines, and any specific strategies that work well with them.
- Observe and Ask Questions: Take time to observe the students and their interactions with the regular SNAs. Ask questions to better understand the students' specific disabilities, strengths, and challenges.
- Be Flexible and Patient: As a substitute SNA, you may be assigned to work with different students in various classrooms. Be flexible and patient, as each student and classroom dynamic may require different approaches.
- Build Positive Relationships: Establish positive and respectful relationships with the students, teachers, and other school staff. A supportive and compassionate approach can create a welcoming learning environment.
- Be Proactive: Take the initiative to engage with students and assist them in their learning activities. Be proactive in identifying and addressing any challenges they may face.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise and positive reinforcement can go a long way in motivating and encouraging students with additional needs. Recognise their efforts and achievements, no matter how small.
- Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of students and their families by maintaining confidentiality regarding their personal information and specific needs.
- Seek Feedback: After each subbing assignment, seek feedback from the regular SNA, teachers, or school administrators. This can help you identify areas of improvement and enhance your performance as a substitute SNA.
- Continuously Learn and Improve: Stay updated on best practices in special education and be open to learning new strategies and techniques. Attend relevant workshops, training sessions, or professional development opportunities to enhance your skills as an SNA.
- Keep a Positive Attitude: Subbing can present various challenges, but maintaining a positive attitude can make a significant difference in your interactions with students and your overall experience as a substitute SNA.
Practical steps you need to take into consideration are as follows:
- Wear comfy footwear & clothing – Trust me the last thing you need is to run around the school is 4inch heels.
- Depending on each school (I presume the majority, I could be wrong) don’t have a hot food canteen, so bring snacks, lunch, and drinks with you.
- Minimise or take off jewellery – I’ve heard some awful stories in the past where jewellery gets caught and the person ends up in hospital with deep cuts.
- Bring a journal for note taking.
- SNAs appointed on or after the 1st of January 2011 are paid an hourly rate of €15.23 – Take note of this so when you receive your payslip you can make sure you are receiving the correct amount. Below is a chart on the rates of pay for an SNA.
Remember, every subbing opportunity is a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of students with additional needs. By being well-prepared, adaptable, and compassionate, you can contribute to their learning and development while gaining valuable experience in the field of special education & inclusion.