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Posted 02 August, 2026

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Polaris
England, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Polaris Education - Sutherland Hall School, TamworthEmotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)Contract: Full Time, Term Time OnlyBasic Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69Location: TamworthStart Date: ASAPBenefitsCompany pensionLife assuranceEmployee Discount SchemeAbout Our SchoolLocated in Tamworth, Sutherland Hall School has a proposed capacity of up to 78 pupils and offers a safe and supportive environment for pupils aged 5 to 18 with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected and empowered. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that academic progress is complemented by emotional wellbeing and personal growth.Our school will form part of the Polaris Community, which has been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years, alongside our growing portfolio of schools across the UK. We're incredibly proud that 100% of our education services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.Role ResponsibilitiesSupport improvements in wellbeing, readiness for learning, resilience and behaviour management within Sutherland Hall SchoolWork with members of the education team to support young people's personal and academic development by removing barriers to learningPromote positive learning behaviours among young peopleDeliver enrichment activitiesSupport pupils during lessons with their academic understanding and pastoral, emotional or behavioural needsRespond to immediate concerns and clarify the situationCreate and collate information relating to lessons and interventions deliveredAssist in preparing information for meetings concerning pupilsAct as an advocate for the ethos of Sutherland Hall SchoolLead pastoral interventionsDevelop the role of pupil voice and liaise with the Senior Leadership Team regarding the pupil councilDevelop relationships with parents and carers, taking an active role in transitions and consultation visitsLead ELSA sessions and complete training with the local authorityRequirementsHave a strong basic education, with a minimum of GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, and sound IT skillsHave previous experience in a similar role, such as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant or Cover SupervisorHave previous experience of working with pupils with SEMH and/or autism within an educational settingExperience of behaviour management and techniquesBe committed to professional development and willing to learnWhat We OfferA workplace that values the emotional health and wellbeing of everybody, you included!A commitment to supporting your development and helping you acquire new skills through a wide range of professional opportunitiesAn opportunity to make a significant contribution to the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching in a safe educational provisionA friendly and inclusive team who are passionate about improving outcomesThe successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, the cost of which will be met by Sutherland Hall School.Sutherland Hall School is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.Sutherland Hall School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.TPBN1_UKTJ