What is an ELSA?

An ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) is a trained member of our staff who focuses on supporting children in the development of their emotional literacy.

What is Emotional Literacy?

Understanding and Managing Feelings: Both about oneself and others.

Building High Self-esteem: Alongside fostering positive interactions with peers and adults.

Enhanced Focus: Being emotionally literate helps children to concentrate better on their learning.

Areas of Focus

The ELSA may work on a variety of areas, including:

• Recognising emotions.
• Self-esteem.
• Social skills.
• Friendship skills.
• Anger management.
• Loss and bereavement.

How Does ELSA Work?

Referral: Children are typically referred for ELSA support by their class teacher, SENCO, support staff or our Pastoral Support Advisor. We also identify needs through our thrice-yearly wellbeing assessments.

Identification: Our pastoral team meets to discuss these referrals to identify and prioritise children who may benefit from ELSA support. This can be individual, in a group, or through regular check-ins.

Assessment: Pre and post-intervention assessments are carried out to monitor the progress of those receiving individual or group support.

Duration: The ELSA programme typically runs for 6-8 sessions, each lasting between 20 and 30 minutes and occurring during the school day.

A Note on the Approach

Supporting, Not Fixing

ELSAs provide emotional support; they do not fix problems.

The aim is to establish a warm, respectful relationship with the pupil and provide a reflective space for open dialogue. Change is a process that takes time and varies depending on the complexity of the issues at hand.

How Can Parents/Carers Help?

Inform the class teacher of any issues potentially affecting your child.

Feel free to contact your child’s class teacher if you have questions or concerns about ELSA support.