Closing the Year with Care: End-of-Year Strategies for SNAs and Teachers

As the school year draws to a close, it's essential to finish with intention, connection, and care. This practical webinar is designed for Special Needs Assistants and teachers who want to wrap up the year in a supportive and structured way—while honouring student progress, promoting emotional wellbeing, and preparing for smooth transitions.

Drawing on guidance from the NCSE Relate Programme and the Department of Education’s 'Understanding Behaviours of Concern' document, this webinar will provide practical tools and reflective strategies to help staff support all learners, especially those with additional needs. Together, we’ll explore ways to celebrate achievements, manage emotions around change, and support students in looking ahead with confidence.

Whether you're in a mainstream or special education setting, this session will leave you feeling equipped and inspired to end the year on a high note—while also setting the stage for a positive start to the new school year.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Implement meaningful end-of-year reflection activities that support student voice and emotional regulation.
2. Use progress tracking tools to review and celebrate student development across the year.
3. Apply transition strategies to reduce anxiety and promote security for students moving to new classes or schools.
4. Recognise and respond to behaviours of concern through a lens of connection and regulation, guided by key national documents.
5. Create a sense of closure while nurturing relationships and highlighting every student’s strengths and successes.

All webinars draw on guidance from the NCSE Relate Programme and the Department of Education’s 'Understanding Behaviours of Concern' document to support SNAs and educators in fostering connection, emotional regulation, and positive transitions for all students.

 Facilitator: Magdalena Landziak

Magdalena has over 8 years of experience working as a Special Needs Assistant in a primary school in Co. Limerick, supporting children with additional needs. She is the Editor and Publisher of AMYGDALA – the First National Magazine for SNAs. Magdalena graduated from UCD after completing the National Training Programme for SNAs and earning a Certificate in Inclusive School Support. With a teaching background from Poland, she expanded her expertise by graduating in May 2024 from Trinity College Dublin with a Postgraduate Level 9 qualification in 21st Century Teaching and Learning. Recently, she completed her Master's in Inclusive Education and SEN and is awaiting the results. Magdalena is running an Instagram page called @sna_zone where she provides valuable resources for SNAs and educators. Magdalena is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with fellow SNAs. She is deeply passionate about advocating for children's rights every day and embraces everything about inclusive education.