At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with emotional literacy and wellbeing through tailored programmes and workshops.
- Company: Join the dynamic South Hampshire College Group, committed to creating better futures.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, health care plan, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team dedicated to student wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade 4/C in English and Maths; experience with young people preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24521 - 24521 £ per year.
Location: Southampton Campus
Close date: 17/07/2026
Salary: £24,521 per annum, pro rata. - Term Time
We are seeking to appoint passionate, dedicated, and skilled Emotional Literacy Support Assistants to join our team on a full-time, term-time only basis (38 weeks per year). You will support the delivery of emotional literacy provision at Southampton College.
We Offer Great Benefits Including:
- Generous employer pension contribution
- Regular training and development
- Access to a health care plan
- Learning and development opportunities
Role and Responsibilities:
- Work with individuals or groups of young people with Education and Health Care Plans (EHCPs) and SEND, who are experiencing difficulties with emotional literacy or other aspects of college or home life.
- Establish supportive, caring and secure relationships with young people, and be available to offer individual support and someone for a young person to talk to.
- Develop knowledge of a range of learning and behavioural support needs and plan, devise and implement appropriate programmes to help develop young people’s emotional literacy skills and emotional wellbeing.
- Implement and review intervention programmes as outlined in individuals' Education and Health Care Plans.
- Create, develop and produce resources for use with intervention programmes, as appropriate.
- Plan and deliver individualised programmes of support and generalised workshops to develop students' emotional literacy and build resilience.
- Plan and deliver workshops to support the emotional literacy of all students.
- Assist colleagues where necessary with the pastoral needs of students and collaborate with safeguarding and enrichment teams to introduce events and interventions for ensuring positive mental health and emotional wellbeing.
- Ensure that all records and case notes are kept up to date, distributed and filed in accordance with the college’s procedures, and that appropriate levels of confidentiality are maintained.
Skills/Experience:
- Experience of working with young people in an education, pastoral or support setting.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive, trusting relationships.
- Empathy, emotional intelligence and excellent listening skills.
- An understanding of emotional wellbeing, SEND and/or SEMH needs.
- The ability to plan and deliver structured interventions.
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and digital record keeping.
Qualifications:
- A minimum of GCSE Grade 4/C in English and Maths (or equivalent).
Desirable:
- ELSA qualification or relevant training in emotional wellbeing, counselling or mental health.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice, attachment theory or restorative approaches.
- Experience supporting students in further education or similar settings.
- Understanding of safeguarding and professional boundaries.
- A full driving licence and access to transport (due to travel between sites).
You Will Be:
- Patient, caring and approachable.
- Resilient and emotionally robust.
- Positive, flexible and solution-focused.
- Committed to inclusion and student wellbeing.
- Professional, reliable and able to maintain confidentiality.
The South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) is a dynamic, purpose driven Further Education organisation with a commitment to Creating Better Futures for learners, employers and communities within South Hampshire and beyond. We pride ourselves on living our values - Collaborative, Inclusive and Aspirational. We also understand the difference exceptional employees can make to us delivering outstanding results and we are always seeking to attract talent who can add value and who will be proud to be part of our growing organisation.
South Hampshire College Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment practices follow safer recruitment guidance, including enhanced DBS checks, online checks, and thorough pre-employment vetting. We value equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in Southampton employer: onlyFE
onlyFE is an excellent employer that values its staff and fosters a supportive work culture, particularly for those in the Education Cleaning Specialist role at our Poole campus. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and clean environment for both students and staff, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in Southampton
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at onlyFE. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like onlyFE.
We think you need these skills to ace Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for onlyFE:Take some time to research onlyFE and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at onlyFE
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for onlyFE's values and approach.
