At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers in creating engaging lessons for children with ASD and SEMH needs.
- Company: Birchwood School, a specialist provision in Cardiff focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, discounts, free lunch, and uniform.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Empathy and enthusiasm for working with children; training provided.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and funded qualifications available.
The predicted salary is between 20021 - 23049 £ per year.
About The Role
Birchwood School is a specialist provision in Cardiff helping pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs through a trauma-informed approach. With small classes and a supportive, therapeutic team, we offer an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
Your Role
- Support teaching staff with planning, delivery, and assessment of engaging, individualized lessons.
- Provide meaningful learning experiences tailored to the needs of children with ASD or SEMH, in small groups or one-to-one settings.
- Foster positive, trusting relationships with pupils, their families, and the wider staff team.
- Assist with daily routines, 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 supports each child’s success.
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 – training will be provided.
- GCSEs (or equivalent) are valued; opportunities to gain accredited qualifications in Supporting Teaching and Learning are available.
- A team-player mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Applicants may indicate a preference for working within our ASD or SEMH provision.
- Part-time applicants must hold a valid driving licence, as the role includes off-site student support.
Note: This position requires an Enhanced DBS Check, including a Barred List Check.
In Return, We Offer
- Professional development support – Employee Assistance, Wellbeing Champions, and Salary Finance Support.
- Blue Light Card discounts on over 15,000 UK retailers.
- Refer-a-Friend bonus – earn up to £1,000.
- Funded level 2 & 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning qualifications.
- Health Shield Plan post-probation.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity leave after 12 months of continuous service.
- Paid time off for cancer screening and appointments (JGHR Pledge).
- Free lunch provided on your shift.
- Free uniform.
Ready to Start a New Chapter? Apply today and indicate your preferred area of specialism (ASD or SEMH) if you have one. Join Birchwood School and help us build brighter futures for children with ASD and SEMH needs.
Learning Support Assistant in Manchester employer: Orbis Education and Care
Contact Detail:
Orbis Education and Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with ASD or SEMH. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Birchwood School and its approach. Understand their values and how they support children with ASD and SEMH. This will help you show your genuine interest and fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Learning Support Assistant, you'll need to connect with pupils, families, and staff. Role-play common scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Birchwood School.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your passion for working with children, especially those with ASD or SEMH needs. We want to see how your experiences align with our values and the role!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention any relevant skills or experiences you have, even if they’re not directly related to education. We love seeing resilience, empathy, and teamwork in action, so let us know how you’ve demonstrated these traits!
Be Authentic: We appreciate honesty and authenticity in applications. Share your genuine motivations for wanting to work at Birchwood School and how you can contribute to our nurturing environment. It’s all about building connections!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orbis Education and Care
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Assistant and the specific needs of children with ASD and SEMH. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed approaches and think about how you can apply these in your responses.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your empathy and resilience, as these qualities are crucial for this role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if Birchwood School is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their approach to supporting staff development or how they foster relationships with families.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Be honest about your experiences and what you can bring to the team. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their nurturing environment, so let your personality shine!