ELSA SUPPORT

” All children should be nurtured in accordance with their individual needs. There will always be children and young people in schools facing challenges that detract from their ability to engage with learning, and some will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others.” (ELSA Network)

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 addressed.

During school time, we are lucky to have Mrs Walker who is our dedicated Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) and is in the last stages of completing the extensive training course in how to give additional emotional support to our pupils. ELSA support can be one-to-one or in small groups. We have a cosy, dedicated ELSA room called the ‘cwtch’ which creates a safe and calm atmosphere to support the child. Mrs Walker uses a variety of techniques to put the children at ease such as games, arts and crafts or mindfulness.

We also have a ‘worry box’ (‘bocs becso’) in school where children can write their worries down and put it in the box. Mrs Walker checks the box regularly and contacts the children who have posted worries to have a chat with them about their concerns.