Job Introduction
Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
- Closing Date: Friday 25 September 2026 at 12 noon
- Interview Date: Friday 2 October 2026
- Job Start Date: November 2026
- Contract: Permanent
- Salary Type: Support Staff
- Salary Details: Grade D (£28,697 - £31,573 FTE)
- Hours of Work: 31 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 39 weeks per year (term time only)
- Location: Newtown CE Primary School
- Contact Email: adminoffice@newtown.hants.sch.uk
Newtown CE Primary School is seeking to appoint a compassionate, skilled and highly motivated Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join our dedicated Inclusion Team.
We are a welcoming and inclusive school committed to ensuring every child is given every opportunity to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Serving a community with significant levels of deprivation, we are proud of the extensive support we provide to help all children overcome barriers to learning and achieve success.
The successful candidate will work closely with our SEND team, class teachers and families to provide targeted emotional literacy interventions and support for children experiencing emotional, social or behavioural challenges. The role will include supporting individual pupils and groups, monitoring progress, liaising with external agencies where appropriate and helping children develop confidence, resilience and positive relationships.
Applications are welcomed from candidates who:
- Have experience of supporting children in a school or similar setting.
- Have experience of working with children with SEND, SEMH needs or emotional regulation difficulties.
- Are patient, nurturing and skilled at building positive relationships with children.
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Are able to work independently whilst contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Can maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional discretion.
- Have GCSE English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above), or equivalent qualifications.
ELSA qualification and experience are desirable but not essential. Full ELSA training and ongoing supervision will be provided for the successful candidate if not already trained.
We are looking for someone who:
- Believes every child can succeed.
- Has a positive, solution-focused approach.
- Can remain calm and resilient when supporting children with complex needs.
- Is committed to working collaboratively with staff, parents and external professionals.
- Is flexible, organised and able to respond to the changing needs of pupils.
Applicants should note that holidays and medical appointments cannot be taken during term time or working hours.
Application Procedure
Visits to the school are warmly welcomed.
For further details, an application pack or to arrange a visit, please contact the school office on 02392 584048 or email adminoffice@newtown.hants.sch.uk.
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
