At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with emotional literacy and social communication in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: Welcoming primary school in Brent with a close-knit community.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in education, ideal for future careers in psychology or teaching.
- Other info: Full-time, term-time role perfect for aspiring educators and psychologists.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: Graduates with experience in supporting children with SEMH needs are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
An ambitious Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) is required for a welcoming one-form-entry primary school in Brent from September 2026. This role would suit a high-achieving graduate from a top university with strong experience supporting children with SEMH needs, emotional regulation barriers and social communication challenges.
The role is in a small Brent primary school with approximately 210 pupils on roll. It is a full-time, term-time-only position, ideal for a graduate considering Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Teaching or SEN.
Work closely with an experienced SENCO, class teachers and pastoral staff in a close-knit school community. This is an excellent opportunity to gain structured school-based experience supporting pupils with SEMH, anxiety, low self-esteem and friendship difficulties.
The successful applicant will provide targeted 1:1 and small-group emotional literacy support across EYFS, KS1 and KS2. The school has around 15-20% of pupils receiving SEN support, with a small number of pupils supported through EHCPs.
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) employer: RIBBONS AND REEVES
Join a nurturing and inclusive primary school in Brent, where your role as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) will be pivotal in shaping the emotional well-being of our pupils. We pride ourselves on a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth, offering you invaluable experience alongside dedicated staff committed to making a difference in children's lives. With a focus on collaboration and development, this position is perfect for graduates aspiring to further their careers in Educational Psychology or Teaching.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni or local education professionals. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to emotional literacy and SEMH needs. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting children with emotional challenges. Share personal stories or experiences during interviews that highlight your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed, and we’re always looking for enthusiastic candidates like you to join our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about the ELSA role and how your experiences have prepared you for it.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with children facing emotional challenges. We love seeing how your background aligns with our school’s values and the specific needs of our pupils.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story! Share specific examples of how you've supported children in the past and what strategies you’ve used to help them overcome emotional barriers. Keep it personal and engaging!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the process. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at RIBBONS AND REEVES
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) inside out. Familiarise yourself with SEMH needs, emotional regulation, and social communication challenges. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting children.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences working with children, especially those with emotional and social challenges. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've helped kids overcome barriers. This will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to emotional literacy support and how they integrate it into their curriculum. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're keen on being part of their community.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way. Be genuine in your responses and let your personality shine through. Schools want to see how you connect with children and staff, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and warmth during the interview.
