Emotional Literacy Support Assistants

My name is Mrs Wells           My name is Mrs Barke

We have been working at Holywell for many years. During this time, we have had different roles across the school, including supporting children with additional needs, general classroom support and working with the Special Education Needs Co-ordinator. We have trained as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSA.)

An ELSA is a member of staff who is trained to support children in the development of their emotional literacy.

What is emotional literacy?

• Understanding and coping with feelings about ourselves 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.
• Friendship skills.
• Anger management.
• Loss and bereavement.

How does the ELSA work?

• A regular slot during the school week for six weeks.
• Sessions can be individual or in small groups and tailored to the child’s individual needs.
• Sessions are fun and might include role-playing, puppets, board games, art & craft & stories.
• They include time to talk.
• A pupil’s progress will be reviewed after six weeks.

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.