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 a greater level of 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.

Children are usually referred for ELSA support by their class teacher, Senior Leaders, SENDCo or by parents request. The ELSAs meet each other regularly to discuss the referral forms and to identify and prioritise which children require the weekly sessions. They then plan support sessions to facilitate the pupil in developing new skills and coping strategies that allow them to manage their social and emotional needs more effectively.

Remember, ELSAs are not there to fix children’s problems. What we can do is provide emotional support. We aim to establish a warm and respectful relationship with a pupil and to provide a reflective space where they are able to share honestly their thoughts and feelings. It needs to be appreciated that change cannot necessarily be achieved rapidly and is dependent upon the context and complexity of the presenting issues. For children with complex or long-term needs it is unrealistic to expect ELSA intervention to resolve all their difficulties, however support will be designed to target specific aspects of a child’s need. Training and development of ELSAs is an ongoing process and they recieve regular supervision. In some cases Mrs Watson can support from external services.

The children that are seen by an ELSA are usually at the request of an Educational Psychologist. It is then determined by priority order depending on circumstances. Post adoption children, those who have social worker involvement and looked after children will be prioritised.​Please email Mrs Lee on elsa@dsatdanemill.org or call 07340521738​