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 transport links across North West London.
- 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 22500 - 27500 £ 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 & Reeves
Ribbons & Reeves is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment in Tower Hamlets where you can truly make a difference in the lives of young people. With a strong focus on professional development, ongoing training, and small class sizes, we empower our staff to thrive while fostering a culture of resilience and collaboration. Join us to be part of a team that values impactful mentorship and prioritises the growth of both students and educators alike.
