An ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) is a member of staff who is trained to support children in the development of their emotional literacy.

Our trained ELSAs are:

• Nicky Pizey
• Helen Bown

What is Emotional Literacy?

• Understanding and coping with feelings about themselves and others.
• Developing high self-esteem and positive interactions with others.
• Being emotionally literate helps children focus better on their learning.

Some of the areas the ELSA may work on:

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

How does ELSA work?

• A regular slot during the school week for 25-35 minutes.
• Sessions can be individual or in small groups and tailored to the child’s individual needs.
• Sessions are fun and might include role-play, puppets, board games, art and craft and stories.
• They include time to talk.
• A pupil’s progress will be reviewed on a half-termly basis.

As a parent/carer, how can you help?

• By informing the class teacher if there are any issues that may be affecting your child.
• Please feel welcome to contact your child’s teacher or the ELSA if you have any questions.