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Posted 07 August, 2026

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Polaris Community
Stoke-on-Trent, england, United Kingdom Full Time
Reference: 471a113a-19d1-4719-af0e-fd6e22f19166

Join Our Team as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Contract: Full Time, Term Time Only

Basic Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69

Location: Tamworth

Start Date: ASAP

Why Choose Sutherland Hall School?

Located in the heart of Tamworth, Sutherland Hall School is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for pupils aged 5 to 18 with complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive atmosphere where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our holistic approach ensures that academic progress goes hand-in-hand with emotional wellbeing and personal growth.

As part of the Polaris Community, we have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. We take pride in our achievements, with 100% of our education services rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant, you will:

  • Support improvements in wellbeing, readiness for learning, resilience, and behaviour management.
  • Collaborate with the education team to help young people overcome barriers to learning.
  • Promote positive learning behaviours and deliver enriching activities.
  • Assist pupils during lessons with academic understanding and emotional needs.
  • Respond to immediate concerns and clarify situations as they arise.
  • Create and collate information related to lessons and interventions.
  • Prepare information for meetings concerning pupils.
  • Act as an advocate for the ethos of Sutherland Hall School.
  • Lead pastoral interventions and develop the role of pupil voice.
  • Engage with parents and carers during transitions and consultations.
  • Lead ELSA sessions and complete training with the local authority.

What We’re Looking For

To thrive in this role, you should:

  • Have a strong educational background, with at least GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics.
  • Possess sound IT skills and previous experience in a similar role, such as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant or Cover Supervisor.
  • Have experience working with pupils with SEMH and/or autism in an educational setting.
  • Be knowledgeable in behaviour management techniques.
  • Be committed to your professional development and eager to learn.

What We Offer You

At Sutherland Hall School, we value the emotional health and wellbeing of our team. Here’s what you can expect:

  • A supportive workplace that prioritizes your development and offers a range of professional opportunities.
  • The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching.
  • A friendly and inclusive team passionate about improving outcomes for our pupils.

Please note that the successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, which will be covered by Sutherland Hall School. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.

Join us in making a difference!

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