Maynooth University Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education

Froebel - Box of Art Materials - Maynooth University

Applications for 2025 intake are now open. Apply here via MU Apply.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Inclusive and Special Education is a one-year, part-time course designed for teachers working with pupils with a range of special educational needs in recognised mainstream primary, secondary and special school settings. It is intended for working professionals who seek a programme that combines relevant theory with best practice. The Course has a flexible, modular format and is compatible with full-time employment. The Diploma awarded has Level 9 Maynooth University accreditation.

Please use this form to register your interest in the course.

What does the course aim to do?

The Course is designed to take account of the major changes that have occurred in recent years in the delivery of special education. Course participants will acquire the skills necessary to tailor classroom practice to take account of the diverse range of special needs encountered in the range of educational settings.

What does the course content include?

Overview of special education developments nationally and internationally
Current DES Policy and Legislation at Primary and Second Level
Curriculum development for children with special educational needs
The Role of Assessment in Special Education
Supporting and Developing Literacy Skills
Supporting and Developing Mathematical Skills
Classroom management and record keeping
Development of Individual Educational Plans
Differentiating the Curriculum
General Learning Disabilities
Emotional and/or Behavioural Difficulties
Specific Speech and Language Disorders
Dyspraxia
Autism
Visual and Hearing Impairment
Physical Disability
Cognitive and Behavioural Intervention Strategies
ICT Applications for Children with Special Needs
Consulting & Co-operating with Mainstream Teachers

Who is Eligible?

Applicants who are eligible to apply for the course must

have a recognised teaching qualification in accordance with Circular 140/2006 and Circular Letter 25/00
have satisfactorily completed their probationary period
hold a sanctioned full-time teaching position in a mainstream primary, secondary or special school
be registered in accordance with Section 31 of the Teaching Council Act, 2001 and have a teaching number.
be teaching, over the duration of the Course, the same group of pupils having special educational needs

Applicants will be required to provide evidence of qualification(s).

What is involved in obtaining the Diploma?

Students must complete all five modules, which are delivered mostly online, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings to support flexibility for teaching professionals. The on-campus requirement falls on specific dates listed below, all of which are scheduled outside standard term times and regular teaching days to minimise disruption.

The teaching practice, class performance and preparation module will be incorporated into participants regular teaching day. In addition to the scheduled lectures, students are expected to engage in independent reading and assessment tasks. The course is designed to be as accessible as possible, with no need for block release or Department of Education funding.

Wednesday 20^th August 2025
Thursday 21^st August 2025
Friday 22^nd August 2025

Saturday 8^th November 2025
Saturday 29th November 2025

Course modules include:

Inclusive Education
Assessment, Planning, & Record Keeping
SEN: Language and Literacy
Range of Special Educational Needs
Mathematics and Current Issues in SEN
Teaching Practice, Class Performance and Preparation

How are the programmes assessed?

Participants will be assessed on the basis of full attendance at the course, successful completion of selected tasks and written assignments along with supervision of their teaching (including planning and preparation) in their own school.

What are the module requirements?

The Diploma programme requires completion of written assignments based on module content. Course work is interactive and focuses on strategic interventions. Most assignments are classroom-based and designed to build skills in special education practice; these include case studies, intervention projects and the development of IEPs. Extensive supportive reading is required. The Course also includes supervised Teaching Practice in participant’s own school. Details on assignments and grading are provided during the first session. In addition, tutors will provide additional, specific guidance for each course as appropriate.

How to apply?

Applications for 2025 intake are now open. Apply here via MU Apply.

As part of the application process you will be required to upload the following:

Transcripts.
Evidence of Garda Clearance.
Evidence of Teaching Council registration.
Two references.
Letter from your Principal confirming that you meet the minimum required contact hours with students with SEN (10 hours) and that you are on a fixed contract or in a permanent position

Closing date for receipt of completed online applications is Monday 30^th June 2025

Please note that shortlisting may apply.

Further information

Further information can be obtained by contacting:

Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education
Maynooth University
Maynooth
Co Kildare
Telephone: (01) 474 7400
Email: [email protected]

Research

Undergraduate Studies

Postgraduate Studies

International

Search form