Please find here a useful Guide for parents regarding ELSA and Pastoral support which we hope you find useful.

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 greater 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 addressed. We are lucky enough to have a qualified ELSA at Sebert Wood Primary School who has been trained by Educational Psychologists to plan and deliver programmes of support to pupils who are experiencing temporary or longer term additional emotional needs. Our Inclusion support assistant works alongside our ELSA.

Mrs S Dade – SENDCo

Miss J Heyland – Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Mrs J Fisk - Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

The majority of ELSA work is delivered on an individual basis, but sometimes small group work is more appropriate, especially in the areas of social and friendship skills. Sessions are fun, we use a range of activities such as: games, role-play with puppets or arts and craft.  ELSA sessions take place in a calm, safe space for the child to feel supported and nurtured. We aim to provide support for a wide range of emotional needs:

• Recognising emotions
• Self-esteem
• Social skills
• Friendship skills
• Management of anger
• Loss and bereavement

Children are usually referred for ELSA support by their class teacher, the SENDCo or parents/carers.  We then plan support sessions to facilitate the pupil in developing new skills and coping strategies that allow them to manage social and emotional demands more effectively.

Please remember, ELSAs are not there to fix children’s problems. What we can do is provide emotional support. We aim to establish a warm, 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.

Mental Health Champion – We are lucky enough to have a Mental Health Champion at Sebert Wood Primary School who helps to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around people’s mental health. 

If you feel that your child needs support, please contact the class teacher or Mrs Dade at the school.

The Parent Hub – A single place for Suffolk parents or carers to find parenting advice and support to help their child’s development.