The ELSA programme has been widely adopted as an evidence-based early intervention for children and young people in over 100 local authorities in the UK. ELSAs attend training days and group supervision sessions led by Educational Psychologists. They will be trained to plan and deliver individualised programmes of support for children to develop their emotional literacy, within a range of different areas. The initial training is a mix of psychological theory and application of theory to support children and young people. The training involves discussion, activities and sharing of helpful resources. Resources to support work as an ELSA are shared and all delegates will be provided with a copy of the book “Emotional Wellbeing: An Introductory Handbook” within the price of the course. The initial training covers the following areas of emotional literacy:
The school/setting will nominate their LSA(s) (identified as having the necessary prerequisite skills to train as an ELSA, see job specification) who will then be released for the training sessions and for on-going half-termly supervision sessions. A member of the teaching staff should be nominated to line-manage the ELSA(s) to support them with the referral process, setting targets and reviewing the intervention. The line-manager or headteacher will be required to join their ELSA(s) for the morning of Day 1. This requirement is important to help them understand the parameters of the ELSA role and the line-manager’s role in supporting ELSAs. Since most ELSAs are likely to have had no specific psychological training beyond those insights provided through initial ELSA training, it is essential for them to receive regular ongoing support that develops their knowledge and understanding in these areas. Without this they may be left floundering as they seek to support children with a complex range of needs. There is also a risk of them being asked to deal with issues beyond their level of competence which in reality require much more specialist professional input. Therefore, to practice as an ELSA they must receive regular supervision which is provided by an Educational Psychologist. ELSAs are eligible to join supervision sessions from the term after they complete their training. No refunds will be made for supervision if ELSAs leave during the year.