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Introducing ELSA: From theory to applied practice
Introducing ELSA: From theory to applied practice
The role of the Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) was created in Southampton in 2001 and has now been implemented in numerous authorities across England, including Hampshire, Bournemouth, Reading, Windsor and Maidenhead. ELSAs in Southampton were originally peripatetic, employed by the local authority to work with individual children in city schools. The success of the initiative, however, led to many schools wanting to employ their own ELSA; the number of ELSAs working in this school-based capacity is now far larger than those working to the original peripatetic model and is now the practice that this term commonly refers to.
The four roles of the ELSA
The four roles of the ELSA
In Southampton, we assert that ELSA work should incorporate each of the following four roles:
Teaching social and emotional skills. First and foremost, the ELSA is a teacher of skills. The manner in which these skills are taught can vary greatly from school to school, according to need.
Establishing a safe and therapeutic space in which to work with children. ELSAs are not counsellors or therapists, but they do use counselling skills and they do have a therapeutic role. Children should feel safe in exploring the world of emotion and feelings with them, should not fear recrimination or mockery, and should enjoy and look forward to their sessions.
Advocating for the child in liaisons with teachers, parents and other professionals.
Advocating for emotional literacy within the wider organisation.
Keen to find out more?
Keen to find out more?
What does being an 'ELSA' actually involve?
What does being an 'ELSA' actually involve?
Who can become an ELSA?
Who can become an ELSA?
How can we embed ELSA in our setting?
How can we embed ELSA in our setting?
Let's do it! Southampton ELSAs in Action
Let's do it! Southampton ELSAs in Action
SECTION UNDER CONTRUCTION (SUMMER 2024)
Young people from early years settings to colleges, their families and professional colleagues all continue to benefit from the great work being undertaken by our ELSAs.
» CLICK HERE for more examples of the great work happening in Southampton! (Do let us know if you have a story to share about your own experiences of ELSA!)
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