Mr. Andy Pike:

We do. The current 72-hour obligation should be replaced with an arrangement that facilitates CPD. There is a national SNA training programme, which has now trained over 4,000 SNAs. That is at QQI level 6. That involves 80 hours of face-to-face tuition and lectures, and much more besides by self-directed study. Study such as that should come in under a new arrangement that replaces the 72 hours.

There is also a range of courses that could be provided through education centres. The courses would need to be specific to the needs of the students in each school, which may differ. There is a need for specific courses where a school population includes students who are hard of hearing, deaf or visually impaired. Specialist training in those areas should be available to SNAs and should be provided.