Education Minister Paul Givan launched a training programme for classroom assistants at South Eastern Regional College Lisburn Campus. SERC Principal and Chief Executive Tommy Martin welcomed Givan to the event.

The Early Years Assistants SEN Training project began in January. It offers accredited training for assistants working with children in pre-school, primary 1 and primary 2 who have special educational needs. Five further education colleges deliver the training, funded by the Public Sector Transformation Fund.

Givan stated that classroom assistants support children in early learning stages. He noted the training aligns with his commitment to workforce development under the SEN Reform Agenda. Givan added that skilled professionals aiding children with SEN early can improve educational outcomes.

The project delivers accredited SEN courses across Northern Ireland. Currently, 114 assistants join the 2025/2026 cohort. Plans include 240 more places over the next two years. The training targets support in early formative years. Evaluated results will guide future professional development.

Orla O'Dowd, Principal of St. Francis’ Primary School, Nursery Unit and Bunscoil Naomh Proinsias, said five staff members participated. She indicated the training boosts school expertise and benefits the children.