Offham Primary School
Nurturing, Enquiring, Inspiring, Achieving
ELSA support
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT AT OFFHAM
Hi There ! My name is Wendy Heeley and I am the E.L.S.A. ( the Emotional Literacy Support Assistant), for Offham School.
WHAT IS AN ELSA ?
An ELSA is a specialist Teaching Assistant who has been trained to work with children who are showing a wide range of emotional or social difficulties, for example; anxiety, low self-esteem, problems with anger or regulating their emotions. ELSAs are chosen for their ability to build good relationships with children.
WHAT ISSUES MAY BE COVERED DURING SESSIONS ?
Any issue which may interfere with a child’s learning, is worth supporting. An emotionally happy child is one that will enjoy their lessons, feel confident and thrive at school !
Some specific issues that may be covered are: RELATIONSHIPS SOCIAL SKILLS BUILDING RESILIENCE COPING STRATEGIES ANXIETY FRIENDSHIPS
SELF ESTEEM CONFIDENCE-BUILDING DIVORCE/SEPARATION LOSS/BEREAVEMENT
WHAT DOES AN ELSA DO AND HOW DO THEY SUPPORT CHILDREN ?
An ELSA works closely with teachers to set clear objectives for individual children. The ELSA will then work on these objectives with the child individually, or sometimes in small groups. Activities, which target the needs of the child, are planned carefully by the ELSA. The ELSA sessions are planned in advance and tailor made to suit the needs of the children. The sessions are designed to be fun and interactive and to engage and motivate the child. A range of activities may be used which could include role play, games, puppets, Art and Crafts as well as talking and listening.
I have also been trained in Drawing and Talking Therapy and Art Therapy, both of which are used in supporting some of our children during their sessions.
What some children say ?
" I love my ELSA sessions. Mrs Heeley has helped
me feel better about my anxieties."
"I have learnt how to make my worries get smaller".
"Mrs Heeley has given me some ideas which have helped
me relax and sleep better at night. I'm not as tired
anymore at school."
What some Parents say ...
"Thank you for the wonderful support you give X. I have
been so impressed by everything you deliver."
"We are very grateful that you have been able to include X
in your diary and I know you will be amazing at helping
her through such a difficult time."
"Thank you so much for the ELSA sessions. X has become much more confident
and settled in school with your help and guidance."