At Wylye Valley Primary School, we realise that good pastoral care of all our children results in an improved learning experience for all.

To help children, we have a range of opportunities in place throughout the school week.

Emotional Literacy

There will always be children facing life challenges that detract from their ability to engage with learning.  Some will require greater support to increase their emotional literacy than others.  Children learn better and are happier in school if their emotional needs are also addressed.

Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSA)

ELSAs are teaching assistants who have received additional training from education psychologists from whom they receive on-going supervision.  Their role is to support children in support to help them understand and regulate their own emotions whilst also respecting the feelings of those around them.

ELSAs are trained to plan and deliver programmes of support to pupils who are experiencing additional emotional needs.  The majority of ELSA work is delivered on an individual basis, but sometimes small group work will be appropriate, especially in the areas of social and friendship skills. 

At Wylye Valley, we are fortunate to have two trained ELSAs on the staff who work throughout the week with children to help them find their own solutions.

Areas that ELSAs can help with include:

 * Self-esteem                         * Social skills                         * Friendship issues               

 * Relationships                       * Bullying                              *Behaviour                                  

 * Anxiety                                * Anger management          * Loss and bereavement                  

 * Conflict                                * Relaxation techniques