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Posted 10 August, 2026

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Polaris Community
Lightwood Green, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Join Our Team as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)\n

Location: Tamworth

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Contract: Full Time, Term Time Only

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Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69

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Start Date: ASAP

About Sutherland Hall School\n

Welcome to Sutherland Hall School, where we create a safe and supportive environment for pupils aged 5 to 18 with complex needs. Located in the heart of Tamworth, our school is dedicated to fostering a culture where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered.

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As part of the Polaris Community, we have been transforming the lives of young people for over 30 years. We take pride in our commitment to holistic education, ensuring that academic progress goes hand-in-hand with emotional wellbeing and personal growth. With a 100% rating of Good or Outstanding from Ofsted, we are excited to welcome you to our passionate team!

Your Role and Responsibilities\n

As an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in enhancing the wellbeing and learning readiness of our students. Your responsibilities will include:

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  • Supporting improvements in wellbeing, resilience, and behaviour management.
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  • Collaborating with the education team to help remove barriers to learning.
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  • Promoting positive learning behaviours among students.
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  • Delivering engaging enrichment activities.
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  • Assisting pupils during lessons with academic and emotional support.
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  • Responding to immediate concerns and clarifying situations.
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  • Creating and collating information related to lessons and interventions.
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  • Preparing information for meetings concerning pupils.
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  • Acting as an advocate for the ethos of Sutherland Hall School.
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  • Leading pastoral interventions and developing pupil voice initiatives.
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  • Building relationships with parents and carers, especially during transitions.
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  • Leading ELSA sessions and participating in local authority training.
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What We’re Looking For\n

To thrive in this role, you should have:

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  • A strong educational background, with at least GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics.
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  • Experience in a similar role, such as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant or Cover Supervisor.
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  • Experience working with pupils with SEMH and/or autism in an educational setting.
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  • Knowledge of behaviour management techniques.
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  • A commitment to professional development and a willingness to learn.
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What We Offer You\n

At Sutherland Hall School, we prioritize the emotional health and wellbeing of our team. Here’s what you can expect:

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  • A supportive workplace that values your wellbeing.
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  • Opportunities for professional development and skill acquisition.
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  • The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children.
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  • A friendly and inclusive team dedicated to improving outcomes.
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Please note that the successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, which will be funded by Sutherland Hall School.

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We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates. Join us in our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.