About The Role Learning Support Assistant (ASD or SEMH) | Birchwood School | Cardiff | Full-Time | Permanent Salary: £20,021.63 - £23,049.00 (Term Time) | £26,339.56 - £30,732.00 (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 orencouraging 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.

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.

Apply today – and don’t forget to indicate your preferred area of specialism (ASD or SEMH) if you have one!

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