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 Northamptonshire

If 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.