Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Ark Schools; Middlesbrough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Middlesbrough is seeking a part-time Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA). This role focuses on developing children's emotional literacy and supporting their learning from EYFS to Year 3. Candidates must be ELSA trained or in training, possessing empathy and effective communication skills. The position offers numerous benefits, including higher salaries than the main pay scale, generous training days, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.

Benefits

Higher salaries than the main pay scale

Generous pension scheme

Access to Ark rewards

Interest-free loans

Gym discounts

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Must be ELSA trained or working towards completion of training in 2026.
• Must show initiative and work independently while being a part of a team.
• Must plan and deliver support programs for children's emotional needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop children's emotional literacy and support their learning.
• Communicate with children, gaining their trust and being approachable.
• Keep accurate and confidential records of involvement.

Skills

Emotionally literate

High degree of empathy

Effective communication

Time management

Flexibility

Education

ELSA trained or currently training

Job description

Job Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a fully trained part‑time Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join our great staff team at Ark Blacklands Primary Academy. Working primarily across year groups from EYFS to Year 3, and occasionally years 4‑6, the role focuses on developing children’s emotional literacy and supporting them to be successful in their learning. This key post supports pupils in understanding, regulating and respecting emotions.

Qualifications & Responsibilities

• Be ELSA trained or currently working to complete training in 2026.
• Be eager to learn new skills, open to feedback, and committed to professional development.
• Be highly committed, enthusiastic, flexible and skilled, and passionate about supporting children’s learning.
• Have high expectations of children and themselves; show initiative and work independently and as part of a team while embracing the Academy’s values.
• Plan and deliver individual and group support programmes with resources that meet children’s social, emotional and mental‑health needs.
• Have good time‑management and organisational skills, keeping confidential, accurate and succinct records of involvement.
• Communicate well with children, gaining their confidence and trust by being approachable and willing to listen.
• Have a warm personality and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Be emotionally literate with a high degree of empathy and discretion, and committed to inclusion.

Benefits

• Salaries 2.5 % higher than main pay scale.
• Twice as many training days as standard.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Access to Ark rewards – savings from over 3,000 major retailers.
• Interest‑free loans up to £5,000 for a season ticket or bicycle.
• Gym discounts of up to 40 %.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme offering free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of support services.

Additional Information

Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. All employees undertake an enhanced DBS check. Before appointment, you must disclose any unspent conviction, caution, reprimand or warning under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non‑disclosure may lead to termination of employment. Disclosure of a criminal background does not automatically debar you; it depends on the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred. We are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis; this role may close earlier than advertised. We strongly encourage you to submit your application at your earliest convenience.