What is ELSA?

 ELSAs are emotional literacy support assistants. There will always be children and young people in school facing life challenges that detract from their ability to engage with learning, some require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. ELSA is an initiative developed by educational psychologists. It recognises that children learn better when their emotional literacy needs are addressed.

ELSA helps children and young people learn to understand their emotions and respect the feeling of others around them. 

ELSAs provide support for a range of emotional needs.

Recognising emotions

Self-esteem

Social skills

Confidence

Friendship skills

Anxiety

Anger management

Loss and bereavement

How does ELSA work?

Children are referred for ELSA by their Class Teacher, Senior Leads or Mrs Spencer- SENCo. Mrs Fulcher is Hingham Primary Schools qualified ELSA who has been trained by educational psychologists to plan and deliver support to children. Mrs Fulcher has termly supervision sessions with an educational psychologist to develop her knowledge and skills.

ELSA sessions are typically delivered one-to-one or in small groups that may focus on specific areas such as friendship or social skills. These sessions are fun and uses a range of activities such as; role-play, games with creativity and art and craft.

Supporting-not fixing

It is important to remember that ELSAs are not there to fix children’s problems, we aim to provide a warm, respectful relationship with children and provide a reflective space where they learn strategies to manage their emotional needs and feel safe and secure within the school environment.

Supporting your child at home