Emotional Literacy Support Assistant; Ark Blacklands Primary Academy

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (Ark Blacklands Primary Academy)

East Sussex County Council –
Part‑time support role, 19.5 hours per week, Grade 5, Salary £25,583 pro rata.

Closing date: 05 January 2026. Interview: 09 January 2026.

We need a fully‑trained Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to work across EYFS to Year 3, with optional support for Years 4‑6. The post focuses on helping children recognise, regulate and respect emotions. The ELSA works in 1:1 or small groups, teaches whole‑class strategies, supports pastoral staff, and may run a lunchtime club.

• Design, plan and deliver individual and group support programmes to meet children’s social, emotional and mental health needs.
• Collaborate with pupils, parents, staff and external agencies to support children’s emotional development.
• Maintain confidential, accurate records of support activities.
• Assist the Pastoral Lead, Inclusion Lead, Senior Mental Health Lead and school counsellors in pastoral and mental health work.
• Provide lunchtime club support for children who find lunchtimes challenging.

• ELSA trained or currently working to complete training in 2026.
• Self‑motivated, open to feedback and committed to professional development.
• Highly committed, enthusiastic, flexible and skilled, with a passion for supporting children’s learning.
• Strong interpersonal and organisational skills, with excellent communication and the ability to build confidence and trust with children.
• Warm personality, ability to stay calm under pressure, high empathy, discretion and commitment to inclusion.

• Comprehensive CPD – twice as many training days as standard.
• Access to Ark Rewards health package, travel loan, retail discounts and other benefits.
• Opportunity to apply for international exchanges and other scholarship prospects.

 and submit by the deadline. For a visit or informal chat, contact Mr Coleman on 01424 429279 or email (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Ark Blacklands Primary Academy – University‑style CPD, strong pastoral support and a caring team that values inclusion and high‑quality learning.