ELSA - Emotional Literacy Support
Welcome to the ELSA page of the website, here you can find information regarding the Emotional Literacy Support we provide within Old Sodbury Primary School.
What us an ELSA
ELSA is an initiative developed and supported by educational psychologists. It is based on the understanding that children learn better and are happier in school and home, if their emotional needs are addressed, and that the child can understand and talk about their emotions. There are always children in schools facing difficult life challenges, be that, family breakdown or bereavement or low self-esteem. that detract from their ability to engaging their learning. Some will require further and greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others, and this is where the ELSA programme comes in.
We can provide support for a wide range of emotional needs:
- Recognising and dealing with emotions
- Self-esteem
- Anger management
- Anxiety
- Friendship skills
- Social Skills
- Loss and bereavement
Mrs Toghill is a qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant at Old Sodbury School. Mrs Toghill has been trained by local Educational Psychologists to plan and deliver programmes to children experiencing additional emotional needs. The work is often on a one to one basis, but can be small group work, if the children are working on friendships or social skills. ELSA sessions are fun, using a range of tools and activities, such as:- arts and crafts, role play and using small world figures. The sessions are held in The Hive which is a clam and safe place for the children to learn in a supported manner.
How the programme runs
Children are referred for ELSA support by their class teachers, SENCo, Family Support Worker or parents. The programme runs over a 6-8 week period, with sessions that are planned to help the children develop skills and coping strategies based on their social and emotional needs. Thus, hopefully helping them deal with their emotions more effectively.
