What is ELSA?

There will always be children and young people in schools facing life challenges that detract from their ability to engage with learning. Some will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others. ELSA is an initiative developed and supported by educational psychologists. It recognises that children learn better and are happier in school if their emotional needs are also met.

We have two qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistants at Candleby Lane: Karen Ward and Kelly Wright. They have both been trained and are supervised by Educational Psychologists to plan and deliver programmes of support to pupils who are experiencing temporary or longer term additional emotional needs. The majority of ELSA work is delivered on an individual basis, but sometimes small group work is more appropriate, especially in the areas of social and friendship skills. Sessions are fun, we use a range of activities such as: games, role-play with puppets or therapeutic activities such as mindfulness or arts and craft.  ELSA sessions take place in our very own 'ELSA room' which provides a calm, safe space where children feel supported and nurtured.

In ELSA we aim to provide support for a wide range of emotional needs:

Recognising emotions
    Self-esteem
    Social skills
    Friendship skills

   Anger management
    Loss and bereavement

How does ELSA work?

Children can be referred for ELSA support by their class teacher and the Inclusion Leader. Every half term the inclusion and pastoral team meets to discuss the referrals and to identify and prioritise which children require a weekly  programme for the next 6-8 weeks. With the programme aims in mind we then plan support sessions to facilitate the pupil in developing new skills and coping strategies that allow them to manage social and emotional demands more effectively.

We aim to establish a warm, respectful relationship with a pupil and to provide emotional support and a reflective space where they

are able to share honestly their thoughts and feelings.