Learning Support Assistant (ASD or SEMH)

Learning Support Assistant (ASD or SEMH) | Birchwood School | Cardiff | Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Full Time £21,674.25 - £22,288.50 (Term Time) | £28,899 - £29,718 (Full Year Equivalent)

Would you love to work in a nurturing, therapeutic school where small class sizes mean you can make a real, lasting impact?

"This is the best school I have been to, the staff listen to me, help and support me with my lessons and we go on great offsite activities." - One of our pupils at Birchwood School.

Birchwood School is seeking dedicated and passionate Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to join our specialist team. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of young people and be part of an exceptional, values-driven school environment.

Birchwood School is a specialist provision in Cardiff supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs that require a Trauma Informed approach. Based on your skills, experience, and qualifications, you can choose which specialism is more relevant to you. You are welcome to express a preference for the area you're most passionate about when applying.

"Working in Birchwood isn't just a job it's a career, the leadership team hugely support staff's professional development whether that is completing a level 3 in Teaching and Learning or encouraging staff to enrol on their PGCE." - Employee of Birchwood School.

With small class sizes, warm and supportive teams, and a strong therapeutic approach, Birchwood provides an inclusive setting where every pupil can thrive, and every staff member can grow.

Your Role as a Learning Support Assistant:
• Support teaching staff with planning, delivery, and assessment of engaging, individualised lessons.
• Provide meaningful learning experiences tailored to the needs of children with ASD or SEMH, in small group or 1:1 setting.
• Foster positive, trusting relationships with pupils, their families, and the wider staff team.
• Support daily routines, supporting with personal care (where needed), and facilitate off-site enrichment activities.
• Promote emotional regulation, independence, and inclusion through creative and therapeutic approaches.
• Actively contribute to a nurturing, safe, and consistent environment that helps every child succeed.

What We're Looking For:

• Resilient, empathetic, and enthusiastic individuals with a genuine passion for working with children.
• Experience with ASD, SEMH, or SEN is welcomed but NOT essential - we'll give you the tools and training to thrive.
• GCSEs (or equivalent) are valued, and we offer opportunities to gain accredited qualifications in Supporting Teaching and Learning.
• A team-player mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• When applying, you can let us know if you're particularly interested in working within our ASD or SEMH provision.
• The part time vacancy would require a driving licence as you will be offsite mostly, supporting the students with their activities.

Please Note: This position involves working with children in a regulated activity and will require an Enhanced DBS Check, including a Barred List Check.

In Return, We Offer:
• Support at every step - Employee Assistance, Wellbeing Champions and Salary Finance Support.
• Blue Light Card - discounts on over 15,000 UK retailers and businesses.
• Refer a Friend bonus - earn up to £1,000!
• Build your career here - funded level 2 & 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning in School qualifications.
• Health Shield Plan - after probation.
• Enhanced maternity/ paternity - after 12 months of continuous service.
• Proud signatory of the JGHR Pledge - paid time off for cancer screening and appointments.
• Free Lunch - provided on your shift
• Free Uniform included

Ready to Start a New Chapter?

Don't miss this opportunity to take on a role that's truly impactful. Join Birchwood School and help us build brighter futures for children with ASD and SEMH needs.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! Once you've submitted your application, keep an eye on your inbox and mobile phone. Our AI Recruitment Assistant, Lily, will be in touch via email and text message to guide you through the next stage of the process and help you book your screening call at a time that suits you. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder just in case, and we look forward to speaking with you soon.

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