At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students emotionally and academically, creating a safe space for their growth.
- Company: Join RGS Prep, a forward-thinking school committed to student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private medical cover, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: ELSA training and a passion for helping students succeed.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting transition to co-education starting in 2027.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 26000 £ per year.
RGS Prep is recruiting an ELSA trained Learning Support Assistant to join the school in September 2026. Working with the Head of Learning Support and Head of Wellbeing, you will provide targeted academic and emotional support and create a safe, supportive, confidential space for pupils. This is a full-time, permanent position working 35 weeks a year. The hours of work will be 8am to 4pm.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Plan, deliver, and review ELSA interventions, keeping clear and accurate records of sessions and progress
- Observe, monitor and record pupil progress, feeding back to teachers and Head of Learning Support
- Use appropriate ELSA resources and strategies tailored to pupils’ needs
- Adapt resources and activities to meet the needs of pupils, including those with SEN
- Assist with classroom organisation, preparation of resources, and displays
- Assist the class teacher in keeping appropriate and efficient records.
In return you will receive:
- £23,552 per annum
- Private medical cover
- Complimentary lunch during term time
- Company pension scheme with an individual contribution of 5% and a School contribution of 10%
- Charitable payroll giving scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
RGS Guildford announced its plan at the end of last year to become co-educational; girls will be welcomed into the RGS with a phased entry starting in September 2027. Further details are available on our website and will be sent when you register your interest.
Learning and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research RGS Prep and understand their values, especially around wellbeing and support. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local education events. They can provide insider info about the school culture and might even give you a heads-up on what the interviewers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios related to emotional support and learning interventions. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident when it’s time to shine in the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives, especially in emotional literacy and learning support.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with ELSA or similar roles. We love seeing how your background aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use simple language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your qualifications without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your ELSA Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your ELSA training and understand the key principles behind emotional literacy support. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past and how they benefited pupils. This shows that you’re not just familiar with the role, but passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
In your interview, highlight examples of how you've tailored your approach to meet the diverse needs of pupils, especially those with SEN. Share specific instances where you adapted resources or activities to ensure every child felt supported. This will demonstrate your flexibility and commitment to inclusive education.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle various situations involving pupils' emotional and academic challenges. Think through potential scenarios and prepare your responses. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Engage with the School's Vision
Research RGS Prep’s ethos and values, especially their plans for becoming co-educational. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission. Showing genuine interest in the school’s future will set you apart from other candidates.