Learning Coach with ELSA in Hampshire, Winchester

About the Role

Teaching Personnel is delighted to be working with a highly respected all-through school in Winchester to recruit a Learning Coach / ELSA who will play a central role in supporting pupils’ social, emotional, and behavioural wellbeing. This is a full-time, permanent position working during school term time (39 weeks), providing vital 1:1 and small-group interventions for students across the secondary phase.

In this role, you will use evidence-based emotional literacy approaches to help pupils manage their feelings, build resilience, and engage more fully with their learning. You will support students both inside and outside the classroom, working collaboratively with teachers, SEN / pastoral teams, and leadership to create a positive, supportive school environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 and small-group ELSA sessions for secondary-age pupils.
• Use evidence-based emotional literacy interventions to help pupils develop regulation, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills.
• Support pupils in the classroom (and outside) to access learning more effectively, particularly those with complex needs or emotional / behavioural challenges.
• Build trusting, empathetic relationships with students, demonstrating resilience and a calm presence under pressure.
• Work closely with the school’s SEND / pastoral teams to identify pupils’ needs and plan support.
• Track progress, maintain records, and report on the impact of interventions.
• Take part in whole-school initiatives, professional learning, and training (including in SEND and emotional wellbeing).
• Contribute to a positive school culture that values inclusion, emotional development, and academic achievement.

About You

We are seeking a compassionate, resilient, and motivated individual who is committed to supporting young people’s emotional wellbeing.

Essential:

• Experience (minimum ~3 years) working with children or young people in a school / educational / support context.
• Experience in providing 1:1 or small-group emotional or social support.
• ELSA training or willingness to undertake the qualification.
• GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths (Grade C / 4 or above).
• Strong communication, listening, and relationship-building skills.
• Emotional resilience, calmness under pressure, and a caring but professional approach.
• Ability to work as part of a team, collaborating with teachers and support staff.

Desirable:

• Experience working with neurodiverse children (e.g., ASD, ADHD).
• Previous experience or training in other SEND-specific approaches or qualifications.
• Familiarity with data tracking and measuring intervention impact.

The School

Ofsted rated the school “Outstanding” in its most recent inspection (Nov 2023) for quality of education, behaviour & attitudes, personal development, and leadership & management. The school prides itself on being a caring and inclusive community, where staff and pupils “belong” and work together to achieve excellence. There is a strong, well-resourced Learning Support Team, with opportunities for professional development, including in SEND / ELSA training.

Additional benefits: full induction, mentoring, support for specialist SEND qualification, on-site nursery, free parking, and fitness facilities. The school has been nationally recognised: per their website, it was highlighted by SSAT for being in the top 10% nationally for student progress and attainment.

How to Apply

Please contact Teaching Personnel with your CV, highlighting your relevant experience and why you're excited about this role. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.

Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.