What is ELSA and how can it help my child?

At Radcliffe-on-Trent Junior School, we recognise that children's emotional wellbeing is just as important as their academic development. Sometimes children need a little extra help to understand their feelings, build confidence or manage challenges in their lives.

Meet Mrs Randall – Our Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Mrs Randall is our qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) and works in school every Monday and Tuesday.

Mrs Randall has completed specialist ELSA training and continues to receive ongoing training and professional development through the local authority as part of her role. This helps her keep her knowledge and skills up to date and provide effective, nurturing emotional support tailored to children's individual needs.

How can ELSA support help?

ELSA support helps children understand and manage their emotions, develop positive relationships and build emotional resilience.

Children may benefit from ELSA support for a range of reasons, including:

• Worries or anxiety

• Friendship difficulties or challenges with relationships

• Low confidence or self-esteem

• Understanding and managing strong emotions

• Changes at home, family difficulties or bereavement

• Developing coping strategies and resilience

Mrs Randall provides a calm, supportive environment where children can explore their feelings, feel listened to and learn practical strategies to help them both in school and beyond.

ELSA is not counselling or specialist mental health treatment, but it can provide valuable early emotional support as part of our wider pastoral and inclusion provision.

How can my child access ELSA support?

If you feel your child would benefit from additional emotional support, please speak to their class teacher or contact our support team.

We will listen to your concerns, consider your child's individual needs and discuss whether ELSA or another form of support would be most appropriate.