By Celia Lazaro and Nsia Sealey-Griffiths
We’re all aware that for pupils to thrive academically, their emotional needs must also be supported. This is where ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) intervention comes in.
What is ELSA?
ELSA is a school-based programme designed to help children and young people better understand and manage their emotions. Through short-term, targeted interventions, pupils gain coping strategies that they can carry forward into their daily lives. The focus is simple but powerful: when emotional needs are met, children are more ready to learn.
The Key Aims of ELSA
Boost emotional literacy – helping pupils recognise, label, and talk about their feelings.
Develop self-esteem and confidence – encouraging them to see their strengths.
Improve social and friendship skills – strengthening peer relationships.
Support emotional regulation – managing difficult emotions such as anger, anxiety, or frustration.
Guide pupils through change – providing tools to cope with loss, transition, or upheaval.
Why it works
The success of ELSA is best seen in the stories of our pupils:
Bob – disengaged from learning, but after six weeks of ELSA sessions, he was actively participating in lessons.
Kola – once in daily altercations, now able to manage her anger and avoid fights.
Teachers who have trained as ELSAs describe how the programme shifts perspectives:
“ELSA changed the way I view behaviour… together we found ways for a pupil to signal when he was overwhelmed, rather than storming out of class.” – Nsia
“The training reminded me that small steps matter… a withdrawn girl gradually found her voice and ended up sharing ideas in class.” – Celia
How Pupils Get Referred
Children may be referred for ELSA support when they experience ongoing emotional, social, or behavioural challenges that create a barrier to learning or wellbeing. Examples include:
Persistent low self-esteem or lack of confidence
Difficulty regulating emotions (anger, anxiety, sadness)
Struggles with friendships, relationships, or social skills
Experiences of loss, change, or trauma
Worries affecting attendance, focus, or behaviour
Repeated conflict with peers or adults
The process itself is simple:
1. Initial concern raised – Class teacher, parent/carer, or other staff member identifies a need.
2. Discussion with SENDCo – Concerns are shared and suitability for ELSA is considered.
3. Completion of SEND Referral Form – Detailing the child’s needs, strengths, and desired outcomes.
4. Review and allocation – The SENDCo prioritises referrals and matches the child with an ELSA.
5. Parental consent – Parents/carers are informed and permission is obtained.
Why You Should Care
By tackling emotional barriers to learning, ELSA helps pupils become more resilient, more confident, and more engaged in the classroom.
Because when children feel supported, they learn better.
Come and chat to the SEND team if you’d like to know more!
