What is ELSA?

ELSA stands for Emotional Literacy Support Assistant.  ELSAs are trained professionals who specialise in helping children and young people understand and manage their emotions.  They work within the school setting, offering targeted support to students who may be facing emotional challenges or struggling to cope with difficult feelings.

Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith as ELSAs:

Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith have undergone specialised training to become certified ELSAs, which equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to provide emotional support to our students.  Their roles encompass several essential aspects:

Emotional Guidance: Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith are here to help students understand and express their emotions in a healthy way. They provide a safe and non-judgmental space where students can talk about their feelings, worries and concerns.

Building Resilience: ELSAs are experts in building emotional resilience. They work with students to develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills, enabling them to navigate challenging situations with confidence.

Promoting Positive Behaviour: By addressing the root causes of emotional difficulties, ELSAs help reduce disruptive behaviour and promote a positive learning environment within the school.

Collaboration: Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith collaborate closely with teachers, parents, and other school staff to ensure a holistic approach to supporting each student's emotional well-being. This collaboration helps create a strong support network around the student.

Specialised Interventions: In some cases, students may require more targeted interventions to address specific emotional challenges. Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith are trained to deliver these interventions effectively.

Mental Health Awareness: As ELSAs, they also contribute to raising awareness about mental health within the school community. This helps reduce the stigma associated with discussing emotions and mental health issues.

Empowering Students: Ultimately, Ms. McDonagh and Mrs. Smith empower students to take charge of their emotional well-being and equip them with lifelong skills for managing their emotions effectively.

If you feel this is something that would benefit your child, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s tutor to discuss this further.