ELSA – Emotional Literacy Support

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing

At Acre Heads Primary School, we recognise that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and understood. Alongside high-quality teaching and strong pastoral care, we provide targeted emotional support through our ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) programme.

ELSA support helps children develop the emotional skills they need to manage feelings, build positive relationships and feel confident in school.

Meet our ELSA Team

Our trained ELSAs work closely with the pastoral and safeguarding team to ensure support is effective and consistent.

ELSA HLTA
Miss F. Eskrett

ELSA HLTA
Mrs H. Job

What is ELSA?

ELSA stands for Emotional Literacy Support Assistant.

ELSAs are specially trained members of staff who work with children to support their emotional wellbeing. Sessions are designed to help children understand their feelings, develop coping strategies and build resilience.

ELSA is not counselling or therapy. It is a school-based intervention that provides practical, nurturing support to help children succeed both emotionally and academically.

How does ELSA support children?

ELSA sessions are carefully planned around individual needs and may help children with:

  • Understanding and managing emotions

  • Building self-esteem and confidence

  • Developing friendships and social skills

  • Managing anxiety or worries

  • Coping with change, loss or transitions

  • Emotional regulation and resilience

Sessions may take place 1:1 or in small groups and are always delivered in a safe, supportive environment.

Who can access ELSA support?

Children may be identified for ELSA support through:

  • Teacher observations

  • Pastoral or safeguarding discussions

  • SEND reviews

  • Parent conversations

  • Significant changes or challenges affecting a child’s wellbeing

Not every child needs ELSA — many emotional needs are supported through everyday classroom practice. ELSA is used when children may benefit from additional, targeted support.

How does the ELSA process work?

At Acre Heads, ELSA support follows a clear and supportive process:

  1. Identification – A need is identified through school monitoring or discussion with parents.

  2. Planning – Targets and support strategies are agreed by the pastoral team.

  3. Sessions – Children take part in regular sessions focused on agreed outcomes.

  4. Review – Progress is reviewed regularly and support adapts as needed.

  5. Closure – When children are ready, support ends with a review and feedback to parents.

We aim to keep parents informed and involved wherever possible.

What does an ELSA session look like?

ELSA sessions are practical and child-friendly. Activities may include:

  • Talking and reflection

  • Games and structured activities

  • Creative tasks such as drawing or storytelling

  • Problem-solving and role-play

  • Relaxation and regulation strategies

Sessions are always tailored to the child and designed to be positive, supportive experiences.

How does ELSA link with the wider support in school?

ELSA is one part of our wider pastoral approach at Acre Heads, which includes:

  • Strong relationships with trusted adults

  • Inclusive classroom environments

  • Behaviour and emotional regulation support

  • SEND provision where appropriate

  • Safeguarding and family support

We believe emotional wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility, and ELSA works alongside teachers and families to provide joined-up support.

Working together with parents

We value strong partnerships with parents and carers. If your child is receiving ELSA support, we will:

  • Explain the focus of sessions

  • Share progress updates

  • Offer practical strategies you can use at home

If you ever have concerns about your child’s emotional wellbeing, please speak to your child’s class teacher or contact the school office.

Organisations and Websites Offering Further Information and Support for ELSA: