Job Advertisement: Learning Mentor/Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Location: Mainstream Primary School, Lambeth, South East London

Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role:

We are seeking a dedicated Learning Mentor/Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join an inclusive and vibrant primary school based in Lambeth. You will play a key role in supporting the emotional and social well-being of children with SEMH (social, emotional, and mental health) needs. Working closely with school leadership, SEN professionals, specialist teachers, and Educational Psychologists, you will implement tailored interventions to help children manage their emotions, build resilience, and enhance their learning experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Support Individual Students: Provide 1:1 mentoring and emotional support to children experiencing emotional difficulties, including tailored interventions and transition support.
Group Interventions: Facilitate small group sessions focusing on emotional regulation, social skills, and self-esteem.
Playtime/Lunchtime Clubs: Lead structured play sessions during break times to promote emotional regulation and social skill development in a calm, predictable setting.
Resource Development: Create and maintain tools such as social stories, visual aids, and regulation toolkits for use in support sessions.
Collaborate with Staff: Work closely with teachers, AH/SENDCO, and support staff to identify students in need of mentoring and monitor their progress. Offer guidance and support to staff as needed.
Parent/Carer Engagement: Liaise with parents and carers to provide feedback on their child's progress and offer strategies for supporting emotional well-being at home. Lead workshops for parents on well-being and behaviour management.
Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of student sessions, interventions, and progress.
Professional Development: Participate in ongoing training and development through Camden Educational Psychology services and SEMH outreach programs, staying up to date on best practices.
Safeguarding: Uphold the school's safeguarding policies, ensuring the well-being and safety of all students.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

Proven experience working in a primary school setting, supporting children with SEMH needs and SEND.
Strong understanding of social, emotional, and mental health challenges in children.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

Background in psychology (degree or prior training).
Interest in pursuing a career as an Educational or Clinical Psychologist.
ELSA accreditation or willingness to work towards accreditation.
Previous Trauma-informed or Attachment-aware training.
Team Teach positive handling training.

What This School Offers:

Supportive and collaborative working environment.
Regular training and supervision from Greenwich ELSA programme and SEMH outreach services.
Opportunities for professional development and growth in SEMH support.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about making a positive impact on children's emotional well-being and supporting their learning journey, we would love to hear from you! Please send your CV outlining your experience and qualifications

Join this team and help shape the future of our children by supporting their emotional growth and resilience!