Beth yw ELSA? / What is ELSA?

ELSA is an initiative developed and supported by educational psychologists. It recognises that children learn better and are happier in school if their emotional needs are also addressed.

The majority of ELSA work is delivered on an individual basis, but sometimes small group work is more appropriate, especially in the areas of social and friendship skills. Sessions are fun, we use a range of activities such as: games, role-play with puppets or therapeutic activities such as mindfulness or arts and craft.  ELSA sessions take place in our very own 'ELSA room' which provides a calm, safe space for the child to feel supported and nurtured.

In ELSA we aim to provide support for a wide range of emotional needs:

Recognising emotions

Anxiety
    Self-esteem
    Social skills
    Friendship skills

   Anger management
    Loss and bereavement

Sut mae ELSA yn gweithio? / How does ELSA work?

Children are usually referred for ELSA support by their class teacher, Senior Leaders or on occasion the SENCo. Teachers discuss the referral forms and identify and prioritise which children require support. With the programme aims in mind we then plan support sessions to facilitate the pupil in developing new skills and coping strategies that allow them to manage social and emotional demands more effectively. The ELSA is a specialist teaching assistant with a wealth of knowledge and experience working with children in a small group or 1:1.

We aim to establish a warm, respectful relationship with a pupil and to provide a reflective space where they are able to share honestly their thoughts and feelings. School supports parents with referrals for specialist counselling, play therapy or to CAMHS. The Educational Psychologist that works with our school has regular supervision sessions with our ELSA, and is able to offer advice on suitability or nature of ELSA involvement in complex cases.

If you feel that your child needs ELSA support, please contact the class teacher or Mrs Allen at the school.

    Diolch am popeth rydych chi wedi gwneud i fi y flwyddyn hyn, diolch am bod fy  ffrind ar y iard pob dydd.  Byddai bydd yn  anghofio ti, Diolch am neud fi chwethin, bydd blwyddyn nesaf byth gallu bod yr un peth heb ti bob dydd.

  Mrs  Allen Diolch yn fawrThank you so much for all your support during this difficult time.  I'll be honest I've not found any of this easy but have managed to keep smiling and just keep going . I Couldn't have got through this without your visits. Having a lovely smiley face and adult conversation to look forward to every week.

                                                     You've been an absolute star !

Mrs Allen is her name

Helping us all is her game

She may be small

But her heart is tall

For she is the true ELSA dame !