At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with emotional literacy and help them build resilience and confidence.
- 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 with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a graduate with experience supporting children with SEMH needs.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ 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. You will 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 candidate 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 supported through EHCPs.
Applicants must be graduates from a strong university, ideally with a 2:1 or above. Previous experience working with children with SEMH needs is essential, either in a school, mentoring, tutoring, youth work, care or charity setting. The ELSA will help pupils develop resilience, confidence, positive behaviour choices and emotional awareness. You will support pupils who may find transitions, routines, peer relationships or classroom expectations challenging.
This role requires patience, emotional maturity, strong communication skills and a calm, consistent approach. The school is based in Brent, within reach of strong transport links across North West London. Candidates must be committed, reflective and able to build trusted relationships with vulnerable pupils. This role is ideal for a graduate who wants meaningful, long-term experience before further training.
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in London employer: RIBBONS AND REEVES
Join a supportive and nurturing primary school in Brent, where you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children with SEMH needs. Our close-knit community fosters collaboration among staff, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly for those aspiring to further their careers in Educational or Clinical Psychology. With a focus on emotional literacy and resilience, this role offers a rewarding experience in a welcoming environment, backed by strong transport links across North West London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who have experience with SEMH needs. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to emotional literacy and support strategies. 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 needs during interviews. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your skills and commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to help you every step of the way in landing that ELSA role.
We think you need these skills to ace Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting children with SEMH needs. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to emotional literacy and how you can make a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the ELSA role. Highlight your academic achievements, especially if you’ve got that 2:1 or above, and any hands-on experience working with children facing emotional challenges.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific skills like patience and strong communication, and how they’ll help you build trusted relationships with pupils.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on the path to joining our supportive school community in Brent!
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. Brush up on SEMH needs, emotional regulation, and how to support children with social communication challenges. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Share Your Experiences
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children with emotional or social challenges. Whether it's through tutoring, mentoring, or any relevant work, having concrete stories ready will help you stand out and demonstrate your capability.
✨Show Your Soft Skills
This role requires patience, emotional maturity, and strong communication skills. Be ready to showcase these qualities during the interview. You might want to think of scenarios where you've had to use these skills effectively, especially in challenging situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEMH needs or how they foster a close-knit community. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
