At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' emotional wellbeing and personal development in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: Sydenham & Dulwich Girls, a high-achieving independent school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, free lunches, and discounts on school fees.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours during term time.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting students with emotional and mental health needs is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Position Details
- Employer: Sydenham & Dulwich Girls
- Location: Sydenham, Greater London
- Contract Type: Fixed term (3 or 4 days per week, initially)
- Hours: Part time, term time
- Salary: To be confirmed
- Start Date: 1st September 2026
Role Overview
The Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) will play a vital role in promoting the emotional wellbeing, resilience and personal development of identified students within this high‑achieving and nurturing independent selective girls' school. The postholder will support pupils, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Condition and associated social, emotional and mental health needs, including those with Education, Health & Care Plans, to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
Responsibilities
Working closely with the Learning Support and Pastoral teams, you will provide targeted emotional literacy and wellbeing support to pupils. You will contribute to the school's commitment to ensuring that all pupils are known, supported and able to flourish in all aspects of school life.
Benefits
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Generous pension schemes
- Free school lunches
- Financial guidance and support
- Retail and lifestyle discounts
- Discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
Equal Opportunity and Safeguarding
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. To be eligible for employment, candidates must provide proof of their right to work in the UK. The GDST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) employer: GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
Sydenham & Dulwich Girls is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where the Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) can make a significant impact on students' emotional wellbeing and personal development. With competitive salaries, extensive professional development opportunities, and generous benefits including discounts on school fees for children, this independent selective girls' school fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing in the vibrant community of Sydenham, Greater London.
Contact Details:
GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
✨Get Involved in Community Events
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✨Make Your Passion Shine
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We think you need these skills to ace Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
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Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust).
How to prepare for a job interview at GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
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In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust).
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You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) at GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust).
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
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