Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) - Secondary School
Location: Northampton
Via: Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment is currently working with a welcoming secondary school in Northampton that is seeking a compassionate and committed Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join their pastoral support team. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs, and helping them develop the skills required to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
In this role, you will work closely with students who may be experiencing emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma-related needs or challenges linked to behaviour and engagement. You will provide targeted emotional literacy support, helping pupils understand and manage their emotions, develop coping strategies and build positive relationships.
You will work collaboratively with teaching staff, SENCOs and pastoral teams to deliver structured interventions, support behaviour plans and contribute to a safe, calm and inclusive learning environment.
The Role Will Involve
1. Providing 1:1 and small-group emotional literacy interventions
2. Supporting students with emotional regulation, resilience and self-awareness
3. Helping pupils develop coping strategies and positive behaviour choices
4. Supporting the implementation of behaviour support and pastoral plans
5. Assisting with de-escalation strategies during moments of dysregulation
6. Building strong, trusting relationships with students who may have had negative experiences of education
7. Liaising with teachers and pastoral staff to monitor progress and wellbeing
The Ideal Candidate Will
8. Have experience supporting children or young people with SEMH or emotional wellbeing needs
9. Be calm, patient and consistent in their approach
10. Demonstrate empathy, resilience and strong emotional intelligence
11. Have excellent communication and teamwork skills
12. Be confident supporting pupils in a secondary school environment
13. Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS on the update service
Experience may have been gained in a school, alternative provision, special school, PRU, youth work, care setting or similar environment.
Why Work with Tradewind Recruitment
14. Competitive daily rates, paid weekly
15. Access to CPD-accredited training, including SEMH, behaviour management, safeguarding and mental health support
16. Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant who understands your experience and career goals
17. Opportunities for long-term and permanent roles within education
If you are passionate about supporting young people's emotional wellbeing and making a meaningful difference within a secondary school setting, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to be considered for this Emotional Literacy Support Assistant role in Northampton.