ELSA
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant
In September 2020 St Anthony’s VC Academy introduced ELSA support to the school for children who were facing barriers to their learning providing 1:1 support or group support to various children throughout the school. This support has been found to have a really positive impact and continues to run during each term. Pupils describe how it helps them to feel calm, happy and ready to learn within the classroom.
What is an ELSA?
An ELSA is a specialist member of staff with a wealth of experience of working with children. ELSAs are trained and regularly supervised by the Educational Psychologists in your Local education authority. An ELSA is a warm and caring person who wants to help your child feel happy in school. Mrs Barley & Miss Walker are both qualified ELSA’s and provide support at St Anthony’s Academy.
What can an ELSA help with?
Area’s in which an ELSA can support with, but is not limited to, are as follows;
- Anger management
- Behaviour
- Anxiety
- Bullying
- Conflict
- Relaxation techniques
- Wishes and feelings
- Loss and bereavement
- Self-esteem
- Independency
- Social skills
- Emotions
- Friendship issues
- Relationships
ELSA Support is consent based. Children will not receive support without their parents being aware and agreeing to the support.
An assessment tool is used to decide what support is best for individual children or whether a different supportive approach would be more beneficial.