Emotional Literacy Support Assistant

Description

ELSA Teaching Assistant – Secondary School – Southampton – September 2025 Start

Location: Southampton

Start Date: September 2025

Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term (with a view to becoming permanent)

Salary: £100 – £130 per day (depending on experience and qualifications)

A forward-thinking secondary school in Southampton is seeking a compassionate and skilled ELSA-trained Teaching Assistant to join their pastoral and support team from September 2025. This is a rewarding, long-term opportunity with the potential to become a permanent position for the right candidate.

About the Role:

You will be working closely with students who need additional emotional support, helping them develop resilience, self-esteem, andhealthy coping strategies to manage challenges both in and out of the classroom. This role is essential in creating a safe, nurturing environment where students feel heard, valued, and supported.

Key Responsibilities:

Delivering targeted ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) sessions to individuals and small groups

Supporting students in understanding and managing their emotions

Helping young people develop strategies for self-regulation and emotional wellbeing

Building trusting relationships to foster a safe and supportive space for expression

Working closely with pastoral staff, SENCO, and class teachers to support whole-school wellbeing initiatives

Contributing to personalised support plans and providing regular feedback on student progress

ELSA qualification/training is essential

Experience working with young people in a pastoral, SEN or mental health support capacity

A warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach

Strong communication and active listening skills

A genuine passion for supporting emotional wellbeing in education

Resilience, patience, and the ability to work effectively within a team

What We’re Looking For:

School Overview:

This secondary school prides itself on its commitment to student wellbeing and personal development. With a strong emphasis on emotional support, the school values the vital role of ELSA practitioners in helping young people thrive. Staff are collaborative, student-focused, and benefit from ongoing training and professional development.

Requirements:

ELSA qualification or currently completing ELSA training

GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths

An enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

A background in education, youth work, or mental health support is beneficial

Competitive daily rate: £100 – £130 per day

Long-term stability with potential for a permanent role

A chance to make a genuine difference in young people’s lives

Supportive school community and senior leadership

Continued professional development and training

Why Join This Role?

If you're an ELSA-trained TA looking for a meaningful role where your support truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact us at for more information.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and reference checks in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy

Ad ID: 5416896122