What is an ELSA?

ELSAs are Emotional Literacy Support Assistants. They are teaching assistants who have had special training from Educational Psychologists to support the emotional development of children and young people in school. ELSAs have regular professional supervision from Educational Psychologists to help them in their work.

What does an ELSA do?

ELSAs help children and young people learn to understand their emotions and respect the feelings of those around them. They provide the time and space for pupils to think about their personal circumstances and how they manage them. The sessions take place in our Nurture room.

How does ELSA work?

Most ELSA programmes will last for 6 weeks, helping the child to learn some specific new skills or coping strategies. Clear programme aims (SMART targets) are set early on and each session has an objective - something the ELSA wants to help the child understand or achieve. 

Who is the ELSA?

Our trained ELSA is Mrs Bird who will liaise regularly with teachers to discuss progress and check on whether new skills are being transferred into the classroom.

Why may my child been chosen?

Your child may be identified by their class teacher as someone who would benefit from a series of ELSA sessions to help them understand and manage their emotions related to a range of issues. This will help them to make the best possible progress both emotionally and socially.

What issues can an ELSA help with?

• Understanding emotions
• Anger
• Anxiety
• Family breakup
• Bereavement
• Empathy
• Friendships
• Self-esteem
• Self-harm
• Self-regulation
• Separation anxiety
• Coping with domestic abuse