ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant)

What is ELSA?

ELSA stands for Emotional Literacy Support Assistant. Our ELSA is a specially trained member of staff who works with children to support their emotional wellbeing and help them develop skills to understand and manage their feelings. 

What does our ELSA do?

Our ELSA provides a safe, nurturing space where children can: 

• Talk about their feelings and emotions
• Develop strategies to manage worries and anxiety
• Build confidence and self-esteem
• Learn social skills and how to build positive friendships
• Work through difficult situations or changes in their lives
• Develop resilience and coping strategies

Who can access ELSA support?

ELSA support is available to any child at Portway Junior School who might benefit from additional emotional support. Children may be referred by: 

• Teachers who notice a child is struggling emotionally
• Parents who have concerns about their child's wellbeing
• The child themselves, if they feel they need someone to talk to

What happens in ELSA sessions?

ELSA sessions are tailored to each child's individual needs. Sessions typically: 

• Take place once a week around 30 minutes
• Use games, activities, stories and creative approaches
• Focus on specific goals agreed with the child, parents and school staff
• Are confidential (unless there are safeguarding concerns)
• Last for an agreed number of weeks, with regular reviews

How can parents support their child?

We believe that working together with parents is essential for supporting children's emotional wellbeing. You can help by: 

• Talking openly with your child about their feelings
• Encouraging them to attend their ELSA sessions
• Communicating with us about any concerns or changes at home
• Celebrating progress, no matter how small
• Continuing conversations at home about emotions and feelings

Further support for parents

If you'd like additional support or information about children's emotional wellbeing, these organisations can help: 

Young Minds

• Website: www.youngminds.org.uk
• Parents Helpline: 0808 802 5544 (Monday-Friday, 9:30am-4pm) 
• Offers advice and support for parents worried about their child's mental health

Place2Be

• Website: www.place2be.org.uk/about-us/news-and-blogs/parents-carers
• Provides resources and articles for parents about children's mental health

Anna Freud Centre

• Website: www.annafreud.org/parents-and-carers
• Resources and guidance for parents on supporting children's mental health

Local Support

Hampshire CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)

• For more serious mental health concerns, speak to your GP about referral to CAMHS
• Website: www.hampshirecamhs.nhs.uk

Hampshire Family Information Service

• Tel: 0300 555 1384
• Website: www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/childrenandfamiles
• Information about local services and support for families

How to find out more

If you would like to discuss ELSA support for your child, or if you have any questions, please contact: 

Mrs Norton, SENDCo

Email: [email protected]

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At Portway Junior School, we are committed to supporting the emotional wellbeing of all our children. ELSA is just one part of our whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing, which includes our PRIDE Values, pastoral support and our commitment to creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

Remember: It's okay to ask for help and talking about feelings is a sign of strength, not weakness.