Emotional Literacy Support Assistant; ELSA

St Martin’s Schools are seeking to appoint a dedicated, compassionate and qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join our supportive and hardworking team.

Are you passionate about supporting children’s emotional wellbeing and helping them thrive in school? This is an exciting opportunity to work in a challenging yet rewarding environment, supporting pupils’ emotional wellbeing and development.

WORKING HOURS: 30 hours per week , 38 weeks per year (term time only) Monday to Friday 08:45 – 3:30 (includes 45 minutes of unpaid break)
Salary: PS4 – Full Time Equivalent (FTE) range £25,246 – £27,033 per annum

• Work with individual pupils and small groups to support emotional literacy, wellbeing and social development
• Help pupils develop coping strategies, confidence, and positive relationships
• Work closely with SENDCo, teachers, and families to create a nurturing environment
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to monitoring pupil progress
• Pro-rata salary: £17,635.07 – £19,224.97

• ELSA training (essential).
• Experience of working with children, preferably in a school or educational setting (essential).
• Safeguarding Information

• School based references from the last 2 years.
• A DBS on the update service or happy to complete a new one.
• A good standard of literacy and communication skills.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A calm, patient and flexible approach to supporting pupils.
• GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above.
• Previous experience working with children.
• A proven ability to work on their own initiative.
• High-level communication skills and the ability to relate positively to children and adults.
• The ability to use relevant technology/equipment.
• A positive, can-do attitude.
• Flexibility and a team-focused approach.

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to complete a self-declaration of their criminal record or information that would make them unsuitable to work with children. It is an offence to apply for a role if applicants are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

• An exciting and challenging working environment
• A dedicated, hardworking and supportive staff team
• Excellent opportunities and a strong commitment to staff professional development
• Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and can be arranged via our Admin Manager, Emma Dennis.

Closing date for applications: 12 midday on Tuesday 27 January 2026
Interviews:
Week commencing 2 February 2026
We reserve the right to invite candidates for interview prior to the closing date and therefore recommend that applications are submitted as early as possible.