ELSAs are Emotional Literacy Support Assistants who have received specific additional training from educational psychologists from whom they receive ongoing supervision following training.

 

We are very lucky to have two ELSA trained members of staff on the team: Mrs Bennett (who is fully trained) and Mrs Dempsey (currently completing her training). Both deliver ELSA sessions in addition to the other pastoral support they provide to children across the school.

In order for children to access specific ELSA support, they need to be specifically referred for this.  It may be that children need help developing skills to understand and manage their feelings, cope with life challenges like family changes or loss, build self-esteem, improve social skills or handle anxiety and stress, enabling them to focus more effectively in school.  Referrals usually come from teachers noticing difficulties or from parents raising concerns, aiming to provide a safe space and coping strategies, not fix problems, through planned sessions.

Common Reasons for Referral:

• Emotional Regulation: Difficulty recognising, understanding, or managing strong emotions like anger, anxiety, or sadness. 
• Social Skills: Trouble making friends, interacting with peers, or navigating social situations. 
• Self-Esteem & Confidence: Low self-worth, lack of confidence, or feeling isolated. 
• Life Events: Coping with significant changes, such as family breakdown, bereavement, or illness. 
• Behavioural Challenges: Acting out due to underlying emotional difficulties. 

What ELSA Support Does:

• Provides a safe, confidential space for children to talk.
• Teaches emotional literacy and coping mechanisms.
• Uses activities like social stories, role-playing, and emotion cards.
• Aims to build resilience, empathy, and self-worth. 

How It Works:

• Referral: 

Usually by a teacher, senior leader, or parent, often discussed with the SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). 

• Planning: 

The ELSA plans specific, short-term (e.g. 6 weeks) goals for the child. 

• Support: 

Delivered one-on-one or in small groups by a trained ELSA, with regular supervision from an Educational Psychologist. 

• Review: 

Sessions are reviewed to see if goals are met or if further support is needed