ELSA is provided each morning by our Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) Julie Marsh. Julie has huge experience as a TA and has received additional training and regular updates so that she is able to support children who may need additional holistic support for a range of different reasons. This could be anything from friendship issues and self-esteem, to bereavement and social skills.

 

ELSA is an intervention that is generally offered on a six week block basis and, while they usually fit a standard structure, are completely personalised and tailored to the needs of the child. Sessions usually last 30-40 minutes, once a week and may be with an individual child or a small group of children. The types of tasks completed might be an emotional check in to see how each child is feeling, an activity tailored to the identified need and a period of relaxation. The sessions are designed to help children to overcome barriers which may prevent them from reaching their full potential at school and aims to ensure that children are happier both at school and at home.

 

Mrs Marsh also provides support first thing on a Monday morning for children who are finding it difficult to come into school after the weekend. Some children are identified in advance but others may be collected after teachers notice they need a little more time to settle. Drinks and biscuits are shared over a discussion about the weekend and, if there is time, some games to help children settle gently into school.

 

This intervention is overseen by Mrs Ottaway and is regularly supervised by our Educational Psychologist. If you would like more information about this intervention or would like to speak to Mrs Marsh or Mrs Ottaway about your childs progress with ELSA please email the elsa email address on elsa@hpslive.net