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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!

INDMIX