Emotional Support Learning Assistant

Emotional Support Learning Assistant (ELSA)

Northamptonshire | Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities | Via Tradewind Recruitment

Tradewind Recruitment is currently seeking compassionate, resilient, and enthusiastic Emotional Support Learning Assistants (ELSAs) to work within a range of primary, secondary, SEN, and alternative provision settings across Northamptonshire.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual who is passionate about supporting children and young people with their emotional wellbeing, social development, and mental health. You will play an important role in helping pupils to overcome barriers to learning, build confidence, develop positive relationships, and feel safe and supported within the school environment.

As an ELSA, you may work with pupils on a one-to-one basis or in small groups, delivering targeted emotional literacy interventions. You will support children with a variety of needs, including anxiety, low self-esteem, friendship difficulties, emotional regulation, bereavement, behaviour challenges, SEMH needs, and school avoidance.

The Role Will Include:

Delivering emotional wellbeing interventions to pupils on a one-to-one and small-group basis
Supporting children to understand and manage their emotions
Helping pupils to develop coping strategies, resilience, confidence, and self-esteem
Supporting pupils with anxiety, emotional regulation, friendship issues, bereavement, and transitions
Working closely with class teachers, SENCOs, pastoral teams, safeguarding leads, and parents/carers
Creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for pupils
Supporting pupils to engage positively in learning and school life
Recording progress, observations, and outcomes from interventions
Supporting behaviour management using a calm, patient, and trauma-informed approach
Following school safeguarding, behaviour, and wellbeing policies at all times
Adapting support to meet the individual needs outlined in EHCPs, support plans, or pastoral plans
Building strong and trusting relationships with pupils who may find school challenging

We Are Looking For:

Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEMH, behavioural, pastoral, or emotional needs
ELSA training or relevant qualifications in mental health, counselling, psychology, youth work, social care, or education would be desirable
A calm, empathetic, and approachable nature
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
The ability to remain professional and resilient in challenging situations
A genuine passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people
An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for one through Tradewind Recruitment

Why Work Through Tradewind Recruitment?

Competitive daily rates, paid weekly
Flexible work to suit your availability
Long-term, temporary-to-permanent, and permanent opportunities available
Access to over 2,500 free CPD courses through The National College
Dedicated support from a specialist Northamptonshire SEN and alternative provision consultant
Opportunities to work in a variety of supportive schools across NorthamptonshireIf you are an experienced ELSA, Learning Mentor, Pastoral Support Worker, Teaching Assistant, Youth Worker, or Mental Health Support Worker looking for a rewarding role, we would love to hear from you